WhatsApp Launches Restricted Chat for Beta Users on Android and iOS
WhatsApp introduces the new Restricted Chat feature for beta users on Android and iOS, adding four major privacy layers to individual conversations.
WhatsApp is taking privacy a step further by rolling out its highly anticipated Restricted Chat feature to select beta testers. Available for both Android and iOS users, this new functionality introduces a layer of control designed to limit how messages and media are handled within specific conversations.
The feature, which acts as an upgrade to the platform's existing Advanced Chat Privacy settings, is currently being tested on specific beta versions: 2.26.36.4 for Android and 26.39.10.20 for iOS. Unlike standard chats, this mode is entirely optional and must be manually activated by the user.
How the Restricted Chat Feature Works
Users can opt-in to this heightened security level by navigating to the chat info screen of an individual conversation. Once the mode is activated, a notification will appear within the chat to confirm that restrictions are in place. This ensures both participants are aware of the modified privacy settings.
The Restricted Chat mode imposes four specific limitations to safeguard the contents of the conversation:
- No Automatic Media Saving: Photos and videos sent within the chat cannot be automatically saved to the device's gallery.
- No Chat Exporting: Users will be unable to export the conversation history, preventing the easy transfer of logs outside the app.
- No Meta AI Integration: The Meta AI features available within WhatsApp will be disabled for that specific conversation.
- No Linked Devices: Participants cannot use the chat on linked devices, ensuring the conversation stays strictly on the primary mobile device.
Enhanced Protection Against Unofficial Access
According to reports, the primary goal of these restrictions is to block the use of unofficial third-party clients or AI agents that might attempt to scrape or access chat data. By limiting the chat to a single device and disabling export functions, WhatsApp creates a much tighter digital perimeter around sensitive discussions.
Despite these new layers of control, WhatsApp has reassured users that the core security of the app remains untouched. Enabling Restricted Chat does not alter the encryption status of the conversation. All messages and calls continue to be protected by industry-standard end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the participants can read or hear the content.
While beta testers are currently exploring these new tools, WhatsApp has not yet announced a definitive timeline for when the Restricted Chat feature will be released to the general public.