WhatsApp is testing a new Restricted Chat feature that gives users more control over how messages and media in selected conversations can be accessed or shared. The feature is currently rolling out to some Android and iOS users enrolled in the messaging platform’s beta programme.
According to WABetaInfo, Restricted Chat is available to some users running WhatsApp beta version 2.26.36.4 on Android and version 26.39.10.20 on iOS. However, availability appears to be limited at this stage, meaning not every beta tester will necessarily have access to it.
Restricted Chat Adds More Limits To Conversations
Restricted Chat is an optional feature that has to be enabled manually for individual conversations. Users can turn it on through the chat info screen, after which WhatsApp displays a notification in the conversation informing participants that the restrictions are active. Once enabled, the new feature applies four specific limitations to chats.
Media shared in the conversation can no longer be automatically saved to a user’s device, while the chat itself cannot be exported. The feature also prevents participants from using Meta AI features within the conversation. In addition, linked devices cannot be used for the chat, with WhatsApp saying this is intended to prevent people from accessing it through unofficial clients or AI agents.
WhatsApp says these restrictions are designed to provide an additional layer of privacy for conversations containing potentially sensitive information. The platform also reiterates that messages and calls remain protected by end-to-end encryption regardless of whether Restricted Chat is enabled.
For now, Restricted Chat remains in testing and WhatsApp has not announced when it will be made available to all users. The feature could also undergo changes before its wider release.
