WhatsApp has been spotted testing new features on its app to give more powers to group admins. The instant messaging app now allows admin to activate a ‘Restricted Groups’ feature, that limits members chats and media sharing.
The setting can only be invoked by the admin which – when activated – the members of the group can only read messages shared by the administrator. To respond to the group members need to use the ‘Message Admin’ button to post a message or share media.
This feature also restricts the users from changing the group’s subject and icon, as well as the description. Essentially this setting turns a group chat into a message board. Currently the option is disabled in the beta version by default. It is expected that this feature will roll out in the next stable version of the app.
For group admins with rowdy users, this could be heaven sent as it gives them the tool to silent the overbearing talkers in the group. However, it can be a double-edged sword, with possible power abuse by the admins themselves.
(Source: WABetaInfo )
