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WhatsApp is one of the most popular chat messaging services available right now. Universal across iPhones and Android phones, the app is even making its way onto smartwatches, with the news that a Wear OS version is in testing.
Now, users are getting a fantastic new feature. Starting today, you can choose to lock certain chats. These won't come up in your usual feed, instead being found in a hidden 'Locked Chats' group which can be found by pulling down the main chat menu.
A password or biometric unlock will be needed to open the chat menu. Notifications from locked chats will also be anonymised, simply showing as a new WhatsApp message rather than displaying the sender and a message preview.
It's a brilliant upgrade and a really fantastic new feature. Users can give themselves a greater degree of privacy for chats that could be sensitive, without needing to have the whole app locked down.
That's great for keeping prying eyes away from private conversations. If your phone is taken, for example, you can rest assured that the most sensitive information is tougher to access.
It's not stopping there, either. Meta have confirmed that the feature will evolve in the next few months, also seeing support on companion devices, and allowing users to choose a different password to the one used on their phone, for another layer of security.
The feature is rolling out globally, and users could see the update available from today.
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.
Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.
He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.
Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.