In response to the ever-growing issue of chat clutter and the limitations of the current pinning feature, WhatsApp is reportedly working on a custom chat filter to help users prioritize and manage their favourite conversations more effectively. This feature, spotted in the latest TestFlight beta update by Wabetainfo, will allow users to filter their chats based on their marked favourite contacts, bringing a new level of organization to the messaging app.
The custom chat filter extends the functionality of the previously announced feature that allows users to mark favourite contacts. With this new filter, users can streamline their chat feed, ensuring easy access to important conversations. Notably, the feature is expected to be compatible with WhatsApp Web, providing users with the convenience of synchronizing their chat preferences across multiple devices.
This development aligns with WhatsApp’s commitment to enhancing user experience and personalization. The chat filter feature is currently in the development phase, and users can anticipate its availability in beta before a full public release. Similarly, the feature for favourite contacts is also under development and expected to be included in a future update.
In addition to these upcoming features, WhatsApp is actively working on enhancing user privacy. A new feature in testing aims to prevent users from taking screenshots of other users’ profile photos. Once live, attempting to screenshot someone else’s profile photo will trigger a notification stating ‘Can’t take a screenshot due to app restrictions.’ While this adds a layer of protection, users should remain cautious, as the feature does not prevent capturing photos with alternative devices.
The privacy-focused feature seeks to minimize the risk of impersonation and harassment on WhatsApp. Currently available to some beta testers, it is anticipated to roll out to all users in the coming weeks. This initiative is in line with WhatsApp’s prior decision in 2019 to disable users from downloading other users’ profile photos.
As part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to combat misinformation, WhatsApp is also developing a dedicated chatbot capable of verifying facts and identifying fake news generated by deep fakes and AI.
