WhatsApp tests Restricted Chat feature on Android and iOS devices

WhatsApp has started testing a new feature called Restricted Chat, which functions to provide additional protection for conversations by limiting the range of activities users can perform on chat content.

According to a report from GSM Arena on Sunday (4/10) local time, this feature is a development of Advanced Chat Privacy. Restricted Chat is currently available on a limited basis to Android and iOS users participating in the WhatsApp beta programme.

The feature is available to users running WhatsApp beta version 2.26.36.4 on Android and version 26.39.10.20 on iOS.

Restricted Chat is optional and will not be applied automatically to all conversations. Users can activate it manually via the chat info page for the specific conversation they wish to protect.

The restrictions applied mean that media sent within a Restricted Chat cannot be automatically saved to the user’s device.

Furthermore, users will be unable to export chat content, use the Meta AI feature within the chat, or access the conversation through linked devices.

WhatsApp stated that the restriction on linked devices is intended to prevent individuals from accessing chats using unofficial clients or artificial intelligence (AI) agents.

Despite implementing these additional restrictions, WhatsApp ensures that messages and calls within the conversation remain protected with end-to-end encryption, whether the Restricted Chat feature is enabled or not.