WhatsApp may soon protect users from certain messages they receive from unknown senders, according to details spotted by the feature tracker. The messaging platform is reportedly working on a feature that will allow users to block messages from unknown accounts, which could improve their device’s performance while also keeping their account safe. WhatsApp has also started rolling out the ability to “like” status updates in the messaging app, allowing users to quickly respond to photos, videos, and text stories sent by other users.
WhatsApp is working on a feature to block messages from unknown accounts
WABetaInfo feature tracker has detected a new Block unknown messages about your account switch to WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.24.17.24, which was recently rolled out to beta testers on Android. Since the feature is still in development, users have no way to try out the feature, which was apparently enabled via reverse engineering.
Blocking messages about an unknown WhatsApp account (left) and status updates such as reactions
Photo source: WABetaInfo
Screenshot of the new setting that is displayed under Privacy > Advanced menu in the settings app, was also shared by WABetaInfo. The feature’s description suggests that WhatsApp will block messages from unknown accounts if they exceed a certain volume.
According to the leaked description, it appears that WhatsApp will block messages from unknown senders to protect a user’s account while also ensuring that the app’s performance on the smartphone is not negatively affected. This suggests that even if users enable Block unknown messages about your account If you switch in the future, some messages will still pass through.
In contrast, Signal restricts messages sent from unknown accounts by default, asking users to Adopt, BlockOr Report conversation initiated by an unidentified user. Senders do not receive read receipts until the recipient accepts the message request, while other options prevent the sender from contacting the recipient in the future.
WhatsApp is testing a similar response to WhatsApp status updates
WhatsApp beta testers can now react to status updates — a feature that lets users send text, images, and videos for 24 hours, similar to Instagram Stories — with a heart emoji. Facebook and Instagram offer the ability to react to messages with a single tap, and the same functionality is now available in the latest WhatsApp beta.
After updating to the WhatsApp for Android 2.24.17.21 beta via the Google Play beta program, you should see a new heart icon in the lower right corner of your screen, next to the reply bar. The feature will likely be rolling out to users slowly, as Gadgets 360 staff were unable to try the feature out after installing the latest beta.
According to details shared by WABetaInfo, users will be able to see who has reacted to their story via a list that shows the contacts who have viewed their story. This suggests that liking a status update will work similarly to Instagram, where users can see who has liked their story. The feature is expected to roll out to iOS and Android users in an upcoming version of the app.
