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WhatsApp Introduces New Privacy Features and Chat Enhancements

HIGHLIGHTS:
  • WhatsApp stops people taking screenshots of profile pictures on Android phones - more privacy!
  • People testing the app on Android can now pin important messages to the top of chats - easier to find things!
  • These changes are coming to iPhones and other Android phones later on.

WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is rolling out new features that address both user privacy and information accessibility. Let's dive into these updates.

Taking Screenshots of Profile Pictures Gets Blocked on Android:

WhatsApp
WhatsApp
In a move to strengthen user privacy, WhatsApp is now blocking screenshots of profile pictures on Android devices. This functionality, spotted by Android Police, applies to both the stable and beta versions of the app. When attempting to capture a screenshot while viewing another user's profile photo, users will either encounter an all-black screen or a message indicating the action is not allowed.

It's important to note that this feature doesn't completely prevent someone from saving your profile picture. A determined individual could still take a picture of the screen using a separate device. Additionally, WhatsApp doesn't block screenshots of the smaller profile picture thumbnails that appear in the main chat list.
whatsapp cannot take profile photo
WhatsApp Screenshot (image credit: Android Police)

Pin Multiple Important Messages for Easy Access (Android Beta Only):

While the screenshot blocking feature focuses on privacy, WhatsApp is also enhancing information management for beta testers on Android. The latest update allows users to pin multiple messages to the top of a chat. Currently, only one message can be pinned at a time. This future update is expected to expand the limit to three pinned messages simultaneously.

This functionality is currently available for testing in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.6.15. If you're an Android beta tester and have updated to this version, you can try pinning multiple messages to see how it improves your chat organization. The wider release for both iOS and Android users is expected at a later date.

In Summary:

WhatsApp is making strides on both the privacy and usability fronts. The screenshot blocking feature on Android offers greater control over profile picture visibility, while the ability to pin multiple messages (currently in Android beta testing) empowers users to keep important information readily accessible within chats. These updates demonstrate WhatsApp's commitment to cater to the evolving needs of its vast user base.