Meta-owned WhatsApp is testing a new feature that will allow users to manage storage directly from each chat.

The update, spotted by WABetaInfo, aims to make it easier for users to control space consumption—especially on older Android phones and iPhones with limited storage.

With over 3 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp has become a daily communication tool for sharing text, photos, videos, and documents. However, the same convenience often leads to a cluttered phone memory. Group chats, in particular, can quickly fill up device storage, forcing users to frequently delete files to free up space.

For users with limited built-in storage, managing WhatsApp’s growing data can be a constant struggle. The app already offers a general storage management feature, but it requires navigating through multiple settings to locate and remove large files or media-heavy chats.

New “manage storage” option in each chat

According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is now testing a new per-chat storage management feature in both its Android beta and iPhone TestFlight versions.

On iPhones, beta testers have noticed a new “Manage Storage” menu appearing within the contact or group info screen. This means users will soon be able to check and clear media files from specific conversations directly—without needing to open the main settings panel.

The upcoming feature mirrors WhatsApp’s existing storage tool but brings more convenience by allowing users to target storage-heavy chats individually. This could be especially beneficial for those dealing with large media exchanges in family or work groups.

How it will help users

This per-chat management system will simplify the cleanup process for users struggling with full storage notifications. Instead of deleting entire conversations or searching through dozens of chats, users can simply open the “Manage Storage” tab in a specific chat and decide what to remove.

It’s expected that the tool will display data usage statistics—such as total storage consumed by photos, videos, voice notes, and documents—making it easier to identify which files can be safely deleted.

While the feature is currently in beta testing, it is expected to roll out gradually in future updates for both Android and iPhone users. Meta has not yet announced an official release date, but given its presence in both platforms’ beta programs, a stable launch may not be far off.

This update continues WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user convenience, following recent improvements like chat filters, message editing, and pinned messages.