WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform owned by Meta, is reportedly testing a new privacy feature aimed at enhancing user control over shared content. Dubbed “Advanced Chat Privacy,” the feature is currently in beta testing for both iOS and Android users, according to WABetaInfo, a trusted source for WhatsApp updates.
The new feature will allow users to prevent recipients from automatically saving media, such as photos and videos, to their device’s gallery. This functionality, previously limited to chats with disappearing messages, is now being expanded to regular conversations. Additionally, the feature will block the option to export entire chat histories, offering an extra layer of security for sensitive or private discussions.
While the feature restricts media saving and chat exports, users will still be able to forward individual messages, ensuring usability. However, it will not include screenshot detection, as WhatsApp acknowledges that users could bypass this restriction through alternative methods like WhatsApp Web.
The Advanced Chat Privacy setting will be optional and can be enabled on a per-chat basis, whether for individual or group conversations. When activated, WhatsApp will notify all participants in the chat about the change through a system message. This transparency ensures that users are aware of the privacy settings in place.
Although the feature is still in development, it is expected to roll out in the coming months. Once launched, it will provide users with greater control over their conversations, reducing the risk of unauthorized data transfers and enhancing overall privacy.
This initiative is part of WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to prioritize user security and privacy, reinforcing its position as a leading messaging platform in an increasingly digital world. Users eagerly await the official release of this feature, which promises to make private conversations even more secure.
