WhatsApp is testing a new Restricted Chats feature as part of its Advanced Chat Privacy tools. The feature is designed to prevent selected conversations from being accessed on devices linked to a user’s account.
According to reports, WhatsApp has introduced the feature in a new beta version of its Android app.
Restricted Chats is an optional security feature. It remains disabled by default. Users must activate it manually for individual conversations.
How to Enable Restricted Chats
Users can activate the feature by opening the conversation they want to protect. They then need to tap the contact’s name to open the Chat Info screen.
After scrolling down, users will find the “Restricted Chat” option. Selecting it will enable the additional privacy protection.
The feature currently works only with individual conversations. It is not available for group chats.
What Happens After a Chat Is Restricted?
Once enabled, the restriction applies to both participants in the conversation.
WhatsApp will stop media from the restricted chat from being automatically saved to the device’s gallery. Neither participant will be able to export the conversation.
Meta AI features will also be disabled inside restricted chats.
The conversation will also remain inaccessible from linked devices other than the user’s primary device.
WhatsApp’s existing Advanced Chat Privacy settings will continue to provide protection for conversations that remain accessible on linked devices.
Feature Still in Beta Testing
Restricted Chats is currently being tested through WhatsApp’s beta program for Android.
WhatsApp has not confirmed when the feature will become available to all users. Its final functionality may also change before a wider rollout.
