WhatsApp 'planning feature to help iPhone and Android users save on storage'

While the feature remains in development, there is no word on when it will be released and on which platform first

WhatsApp was the most-blocked platform in 2019 (iStock)

WhatsApp will be updating its app in order to assist iPhone and Android phone users who are running low on storage.

A new feature, called Storage Usage, will give users greater insight to the files the messaging app has saved which are taking up the most space.

It will reportedly have a storage bar, showing how much storage is being taken up by ‘WhatsApp Media’ and a section that allows users to easily delete large files from their device – both those that have been saved on the device or forwarded to contacts.

At the bottom of the screen, users will be able to filter specific chats for messages.

According to wabetainfo, which first spotted the potential update and has posted screenshots of how it might look, these tools are currently under development but are likely to come to both iOS and Android.

As of writing, there is no set time for the feature to be released. WhatsApp declined to comment on what it called "rumour and speculation".

This news comes as WhatsApp is also rolling out other features, including an iPad app and the ability to use the same WhatsApp account on multiple devices, according to a leaked report.

It suggests that WhatsApp users will be able to link four devices to one account, but also said the feature is still under development and have no indication when it would arrive.

The feature could also be cancelled before it is released to the public.