WhatsApp is trying out a number of new features that are supposed to make it safer for users, give them more control over their messages, and make group chats easier to use. These tools have been added to current beta versions of Android and WhatsApp Web. The changes are mostly about privacy, keeping less data, and making it easier to manage conversations.
Linked accounts are one feature that is aimed at younger users. WhatsApp is working on a way for an adolescent account to be a secondary profile linked to a parent’s main account. These linked accounts have greater default protections. You can only send messages and make calls to saved contacts. People who don’t know your number can’t start a conversation. This configuration is meant to limit unwanted contact while still letting you send basic messages to those you trust. WABetaInfo found the functionality through beta testing, and it is currently being worked on.
Another update adds more options for deleting messages. WhatsApp now has a timer that lasts at least 24 hours. The company is currently trying out shorter times. People have seen two new timers. One choice deletes texts after an hour. Another one gets rid of messages after twelve hours. The one-hour option is for very sensitive information like verification codes or financial information. The twelve-hour option is good for short-term coordination, like daily updates or instructions. These timers start when a message is sent. Before users may use the program, it shows a warning that messages will be deleted forever after the timer runs out.
WhatsApp is also working on a new group chat function to help new members get up to speed. This feature lets people who join a group automatically share their most recent chat history. A group administrator must turn on the option. When active, new members get a small number of old messages, usually from the last 24 hours. This cuts down on the need for repeated explanations and helps new people understand what’s going on right away.
All three features are still under beta testing and aren’t available to everyone yet. The experiments show that privacy management is moving further toward automation. The improvements make things easier for users by managing how long messages last, minimizing unwanted contact, and making it easier for groups to join. It looks like the functionalities are only available on Android and the web right now. There have been no formal release dates given.
Source: https://www.timesofai.com/news/3-game-changing-whatsapp-features/
