WhatsApp is currently testing and pushing new features at a relatively high pace. While we recently saw the inclusion of voice previews and advanced control to group admins, the app is now seemingly testing a relatively uncomplicated visual feature – reminding users that their chats and calls are encrypted.
First noted by WABetaInfo (via), this feature involves a new footer within the Status and Calls section with a message that reads – “Your status/personal calls are end-to-end encrypted.”
While this feature is currently visible under Status and Calls, it would soon expand to the Chats section as well. This is one of the simpler inclusions to the app, and it doesn’t change functionality in any way. However, it’s an important reminder for users concerned about WhatsApp’s privacy in the wake of criticism against parent company Meta.
The new encryption indicators aren’t widely available yet
As you can tell by the screenshot, the feature is limited to the iOS version of WhatsApp. But WABetaInfo claims that the footer would make its way to the Android version of the app at a “later date.”
Users likely can’t see the new inclusion right away since it’s currently under development. But it shouldn’t take long for the features to appear on the Android and iOS versions of WhatsApp.
The mere mention of Meta or Facebook brings up some privacy concerns. However, WhatsApp wants to assure users that private or group messages and calls are unreadable to anyone but the user. The chat client recently enabled encryption protocols for cloud chat backups as well.
This move could be a reaction to the rising popularity of secure messaging apps like Signal and Telegram. Following the controversy surrounding WhatsApp’s proposed privacy policy change this year, millions of users flocked to the aforementioned services. Though WhatsApp still enjoys a significant chunk of the global instant messaging market, its dominance is shrinking.
Speaking of privacy, WhatsApp recently added the ability to hide the “last seen” status from strangers or unknown contacts. A representative for the company said that this move would enhance the “privacy and security” of the users.
WhatsApp is also taking some steps to expand its growth. In September, the app launched an in-app local business directory, allowing users to find nearby attractions such as restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, etc. The pilot began in Sao Paulo, Brazil, though it’s not available in other regions yet.
2021-12-22 15:08:14