WhatsApp, a popular instant messaging platform, is reportedly testing a new feature to block spam messages from unknown accounts. This security improvement is intended to help users reduce the flood of unwanted messages and improve the overall messaging experience. However, the feature is optional and can be enabled by users in the app’s settings.

Spam blocking feature is being tested

The new feature was first spotted by WABetaInfo and is currently being tested in the beta version of WhatsApp on Android. The feature automatically blocks messages from unknown accounts when they exceed a certain volume. This prevents an influx of spam from contacts not stored in your phone and provides an additional layer of protection.

How do I activate the function?

If you are using the latest beta version of WhatsApp (2.24.17.24) on Android, you can enable this feature by navigating to the following path:

1. Settings
2. Click on “Privacy”.
3. Click on “Advanced”.
4. Here you will find the option to block unknown accounts directly above the “Protect IP address when making calls” function.

This feature allows users to proactively protect their accounts from spam while maintaining control over which messages are allowed.

Expected availability on iOS

Although this upcoming feature is currently being tested for the Android operating system, it is expected to be released for iOS users soon.

At the time of writing, WhatsApp has not confirmed a public release date, but the launch is expected to happen later this year (probably in the last quarter of 2024).

Other features of WhatsApp

In addition to spam blocking, WhatsApp has also introduced a new AI-powered feature that allows users to create custom stickers. The Imagine tool available in the attachments section allows users to create AI stickers by simply giving commands to Meta AI.

These ongoing updates reflect WhatsApp’s focus on improving the user experience and provide both security improvements and creative tools.

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