WhatsApp Will Allow Users To Choose If They Want Link Previews In DMs Or Not

WhatsApp, which has been working on a variety of features, is now reportedly working on a new privacy feature which will offer more control over the messages, claims a report by WaBetaInfo.

In the latest Beta update on Google Play, the testers have seen a new option which lets them disable link previews within the chats.

According to WaBetaInfo, the WhatsApp update reporting website, the users will be able to disable the link previews in the chats. The report stated that the new feature has been introduced with the Android beta version (2.24.7.12) and may roll out to the general public in the coming weeks with future updates.

Till now, the Meta-owned instant messaging platform automatically fetches the preview when the user tries to share a link. It includes the image, description and the title. As per the report, the feature will help the users to avoid clicking on clickbait links with appealing images or details without understanding the content.

To address the issue, the company is trying to disable previews and provide customers with complete control over whether or not to generate previews. The new functionality will allow users to exercise extra caution while sharing or opening any link.

The company has been strengthening customer privacy by adding features such as vanishing messages and call encryption, among others. However, users will still be able to view the actual link, and scammers can use false links to trick people. This feature can be referred to as an additional layer of protection, but users must exercise caution.

Do note that the feature is currently under beta testing and the platform has not announced any official release date. We expect that the feature will be released soon with the upcoming updates.

Meanwhile, Meta is also testing a feature which will allow users to put one-minute-long videos in their status. This feature is also under testing and may roll out for the public with upcoming updates.