WhatsApp is rolling out a new optional security feature called Strict account settings, which is designed to protect users who may be targeted by sophisticated cyberattacks. Similar in spirit to Apple's Lockdown Mode for iPhone, the feature is aimed primarily at journalists, activists, and public-facing figures. Once enabled, the setting locks various account options to their most restrictive settings. For example, WhatsApp will automatically block attachments and media from senders who aren't in your contacts, reducing potential vectors for spyware or malicious files. Here's WhatsApp's support explanation about other settings that are impacted: Account security: Two-step verification is turned on. Security notifications are turned on and locked. End-to-end encrypted backups are encouraged for users with backups enabled. Messaging and media:…

WhatsApp announced three new group chat features today, expanding how users can interact and add context to their role within conversations involving many participants. The Meta-owned messaging app is rolling out Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders, all of which are designed to give group chats more flexibility and organization. Member Tags let you assign yourself different roles in different group chats for more context – so you can be "Coach" in one thread and "Dad" in another, for example. Meanwhile, Text Stickers instantly turn typed words into sticker graphics that users can then save to custom packs. Lastly, with Event Reminders, now when you create and send an event in your group chat you can set custom early…

WhatsApp has just rolled out a significant update through the beta program, as reported by WABetaInfo. The headline… The post WhatsApp Beta adds Connected Peripherals Section on iOS appeared first on Appleosophy.

WhatsApp is testing a new feature that allows iPhone users to manage two separate accounts within the same app, according to WABetaInfo. As found in the latest TestFlight beta on iOS, the feature introduces a new "Account List" section in the settings menu, where users can add a second account without needing to go near WhatsApp Business or attempt any sort of workaround. The beta currently supports up to two accounts, which can be newly created numbers, existing accounts from WhatsApp Business or other devices, or companion accounts linked via QR code scanning. Each account maintains separate chat histories, backup configurations, notification settings, and privacy preferences. To switch between accounts, users can access the Account List section, press and hold…

WhatsApp is close to rolling out third-party chat support across the European Union, as part its compliance with the bloc's Digital Markets Act (DMA). WhatsApp parent company Meta is required by the DMA to make its messaging platform interoperable with other third-party services, and Meta says the first apps that WhatsApp will support are BirdyChat and Haiket, following successful testing over recent months. WhatsApp users on iOS and Android who choose to make use of the interoperability support will be able to share messages, images, voice messages, videos, and files. Meta says there will also be an option to create groups with third-party users, once its partners are ready to support the feature. Meta did not mention web apps or…

WhatsApp will be available for the Apple Watch starting today. (Image: Meta Platforms) WhatsApp, Meta Platforms Inc.’s widely used messaging app, has launched a dedicated Apple Watch application, enabling users to manage chats directly from their Apple Inc. smartwatch without needing to retrieve their iPhone. The app incorporates features like call notifications, voice message recording and sending, complete message previews, and reactions, aligning WhatsApp’s capabilities more closely with those of Apple’s native Messages app on the watch. Chris Welch for Bloomberg News: ‎ Until now, Apple Watch owners could view WhatsApp notifications and respond to messages using the smartwatch, but a standalone app should significantly improve the overall experience. Other enhancements include clearer images and stickers, plus the ability to…