WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new privacy feature in its beta version for Android that allows users to lock chats on linked devices.
While the Chat Lock feature has been available on the Meta-owned instant messaging platform since 2023, it has been limited to primary devices. However, this feature may soon extend to linked devices, such as WhatsApp Web. The Chat Lock feature enables users to hide chats using either a passcode or biometric authentication.
According to WABetaInfo, a WhatsApp update tracking platform, the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android (version 2.24.11.9) includes the chat lock feature for linked devices. Users will be prompted to enter a secret code on their primary device to unlock chats on linked devices.
Once the code is set, locked chats will disappear from the linked device and will only be accessible in the locked chat section.
The Chat Lock feature is designed to provide an additional layer of privacy by hiding conversations from the main chats tab. To access locked chats, users need to swipe down and enter their password. Currently, this feature is only supported on primary devices.
There is no official information on when this feature will be available in the stable version of WhatsApp. However, it is expected to be released to the public for both iOS and Android users after beta testing concludes.
