WhatsApp to soon let you lock chats on linked devices

WhatsApp is now working on enhancing privacy for chats on more than one device. A new feature currently in development will allow users to lock their chats behind cryptic codes tied to the main phone on secondary and tertiary devices. This will extend the chat lock on linked devices, a feature recently rolled out to allow users to access their chats on multiple devices.

What is this WhatsApp feature?

WhatsApp watchdog WABetaInfo has spotted the chat lock feature on the secondary and tertiary versions of the app. According to the screenshot in the report, WhatsApp will give users the ability to set up secret codes to access chats on linked devices. The secret code can be set up from the main device and will work on linked devices only. The report said the secret codes will not be available to access on linked devices, meaning users will need the main device to access chats. The new feature comes days after WABetaInfo reported it was in the pipeline.

On primary devices, users can lock chats using a biometric method such as a fingerprint sensor on Android phones and Touch ID or Face ID on iPhone devices. However, linked devices cannot be locked using biometrics. WhatsApp will issue secret codes from the main app for such devices, and users can access their locked chats only after entering these codes.

Who can use this feature?

According to the report, the new secret codes feature is available on the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.8.4. Since this is a beta version, it is meant only for testers who are enrolled on the programme. Users on the stable channel cannot see this feature yet, and WhatsApp has not officially said anything about the launch timeline of the secret codes. If you are a stable WhatsApp user and wish to access this feature, you will need to become a beta tester. You can request participation in the WhatsApp beta programme from the Google Play Store to become eligible.