WhatsApp latest update, now in beta via the Google Play Beta Program, brings the version number to 2.24.11.9 and introduces a long-awaited feature: locked chats for linked devices. This update is currently being tested by a select group of beta users.
The concept of locked chat for linked devices was first hinted at in a previous beta version, 2.24.8.4 when WhatsApp announced plans to enhance user privacy by allowing chats to be secured across multiple linked devices. Now, with the 2.24.11.9 update, this feature is undergoing testing, reported WABetaInfo, suggesting a broader rollout soon.
Beta testers with access to this update can now secure their conversations on linked devices. Users must create a unique secret code on their primary device to activate this feature. This code is then used to access locked chats on any linked device. Once set up, these protected chats will be hidden from the main chats list on linked devices and accessible only via the locked chats screen using the secret code.
The secret code is synchronised across all linked devices, ensuring access to protected conversations.
WhatsApp’s goal, with this update, is to enhance user privacy and security by creating a dedicated area for secure chats and syncing the secret code across all devices. This feature enables users to hide sensitive conversations from unwanted viewers while ensuring easy access across their linked devices.
WhatsApp is also beta-testing a feature that allows users to manage channels directly from any of their linked devices.
Earlier this month, reports emerged regarding WhatsApp’s development of a feature that temporarily limits accounts’ ability to send messages. Additionally, in April, WhatsApp introduced passkey verification for iOS users.
Moreover, back in March, Meta unveiled plans for interoperability between WhatsApp and Messenger, enabling select third-party messaging services to integrate with its platform.
Notably, in December 2023, WhatsApp’s version 23.25.73 brought the ability for iOS users to share media in original quality as document files.
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