WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature aimed at enhancing user privacy by potentially blocking messages from unknown senders. According to details uncovered by WABetaInfo, the messaging platform is testing a feature that could help protect users from unwanted messages, which, in turn, might improve the performance of their devices and safeguard their accounts. Additionally, WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new capability that allows users to “like” status updates, providing a quick way to react to stories shared by other users.
The new feature, currently in development, was discovered in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.17.24. This feature, not yet available for general use, introduces a toggle within the app’s privacy settings under the “Advanced” section. The toggle, when activated, would enable WhatsApp to block certain messages from unknown accounts, particularly if these messages exceed a specified volume. While the exact parameters of this blocking mechanism are still unclear, the feature seems designed to enhance user security without compromising the app’s performance.
Although this feature is still in its early stages, and users cannot yet test it, it suggests a significant shift in how WhatsApp handles messages from unknown contacts. By potentially filtering out a high volume of messages from unrecognized senders, WhatsApp could prevent spam and other unwanted communications from overwhelming users. However, it appears that even with this toggle enabled, some messages from unknown accounts may still get through, depending on the criteria WhatsApp sets.
This development contrasts with the approach taken by Signal, another messaging app that restricts messages from unknown senders by default. Signal prompts users to either accept, block, or report any message from an unidentified sender, and it does not show read receipts to the sender until the message is accepted. This method ensures a higher level of control over who can contact users and reduces the risk of unwanted interactions.
In another update, WhatsApp is also testing the ability for users to react to status updates with a heart emoji. This feature, similar to those found on Facebook and Instagram, allows users to quickly express their appreciation for photos, videos, and text stories posted by others on the app. The new reaction option is visible as a heart icon at the bottom right corner of the screen next to the reply bar, and it is slowly being rolled out to users who are part of the WhatsApp beta program.
Users who react to a status update will be visible to the person who posted it, as their name will appear in the list of contacts who viewed the story. This functionality mirrors that of Instagram, where users can see who has liked their stories. Although the feature is currently available to a limited number of beta testers, it is expected to be introduced to a broader audience on both iOS and Android platforms in a future update.
