As always, WhatsApp is upping its game with new features in development one after the other. Cut to the latest update, WhatsApp is working on a feature that would allow users to lock chats and hide them from any intruder.
Spotted first on WhatsApp Beta for Android v2.23.8.2, the update lets users lock specific chats using a fingerprint or passcode. Note that WhatsApp already offers a security feature to lock the app itself, however, locking individual and group chats and hiding them takes it a step further.
It literally adds another layer of security where users can be assured that their private chats are safely tucked away even if another person gets access to the app itself. He/she would need a fingerprint or passcode to unlock the same and reveal the locked chats. In case the user tries to open the locked chats anyway, they will receive a prompt to clear the chat to open it if they should.
There’s another feature in the works as well. It will keep media sharing private and away from appearing in the device’s gallery. It includes photos and videos that were shared in a locked chat. It is actually intuitive given the fact that what is used is a feature that hides the chats but the media is clearly visible in the device’s gallery.
Moving on, we have another security feature where WhatsApp is working on adding 15 additional duration limits for its disappearing message feature. At present, you can select between 24 hours, 7 days, and 90 days as the duration limits. However, tap on ‘More options’ and you will get the limits right from an hour to one year spread across 15 duration limits.
The WhatsApp Beta for Android v2.23.8.2 is available through Google Play Store for a limited number of users. It will be available to the mass public in the coming days/weeks. WhatsApp has already updated the app with a split view interface for Android tabs, call links on the Windows version, and voice notes as status updates among other features.
