Categories: Gadgets360

WhatsApp Testing Secret Code Feature for Locked Chats; Channel Usernames Reportedly in the Works

WhatsApp has begun testing a new feature that allows you to hide secret chats on the messaging app. With the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android, you can set a secret code that will allow you to hide specific chats from the main list. Currently, WhatsApp allows you to swipe down in the chat list to open your hidden chats, but the new feature will hide them from even showing up until the secret code is entered. Meanwhile, WhatsApp is also working on developing a feature that will allow you to set a username for channels.

After updating to WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.24.20, you will be able to set a secret code for hidden chats on the messaging app. In order to do so, open the list of locked chats and tap the three-dot menu at the top > Chat lock settings > toggle Hide locked chats and enter a memorable secret code. WhatsApp specifically asks you to choose a memorable secret code as resetting your secret code will clear all your locked chats.

WhatsApp’s new secret code feature
Photo Credit: Screenshot/ WhatsApp

 

Once you have hidden your locked chats, they won’t be visible in the Locked chats category that shows up when you swipe down on the home screen. Instead, you will have to enter the secret code in the search bar to open the hidden (and locked) chat list.

The feature to hide locked chats will prevent someone who is using your phone from detecting the presence of locked chats on your phone — instead of simply swiping down, they will need to enter your secret code. 

If you wish to revert to the previous locking mechanism that protects chats with your fingerprint, you can toggle Hide locked chats following the steps mentioned above, after entering your secret code. The locked chats will once again be visible with a swipe down on the list of main chats.  

Meanwhile, feature tracker WABetaInfo spotted a new feature in development that will allow users to set a username for channels. Once a username is set, your channel subscribers will be able to enter the username to open the channel, according to the tracker. The feature is still being worked on, so beta testers won’t be able to try the feature until it is rolled out on the beta channel at a later date. 


Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 the best foldable phone you can buy in India right now? We discuss the company’s new clamshell-style foldable handset on the latest episode of Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.

Recent Posts

Beyoncé’s NFL Christmas Halftime Show Now Streaming on Netflix: Everything You Need to Know

Beyoncé's much-anticipated halftime performance, part of Netflix's NFL Christmas Gameday event, is set to release…

10 months ago

Scientists Predict Under Sea Volcano Eruption Near Oregon Coast in 2025

An undersea volcano situated roughly 470 kilometers off Oregon's coastline, Axial Seamount, is showing signs…

10 months ago

Organic Molecules in Space: A Key to Understanding Life’s Cosmic Origins

As researchers delve into the cosmos, organic molecules—the building blocks of life—emerge as a recurring…

10 months ago

The Secret of the Shiledars OTT Release Date Announced: What You Need to Know

Director Aditya Sarpotdar, following his successful venture "Munjya," has announced the release of his treasure…

10 months ago

Anne Hathaway’s Mothers’ Instinct Now Streaming on Lionsgate Play

The psychological thriller Mothers' Instinct, featuring Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, and Kelly Carmichael, delves into…

10 months ago

All We Imagine As Light OTT Release Date: When and Where to Watch it Online?

Payal Kapadia's award-winning film, All We Imagine As Light, will soon be available for streaming,…

10 months ago