WhatsApp is developing a feature enabling users to block messages from unknown senders, aiming to enhance account security and device performance.
The WABetaInfo confirmed that the latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.17.24 has been available to beta testers. Although the feature is still under development and unavailable for public use, it was activated via reverse engineering for testing purposes.
WABetaInfo shared a screenshot showing the new setting under the Privacy > Advanced menu. The feature description indicates that WhatsApp intends to block messages from unknown accounts exceeding a certain volume, balancing user safety and app performance. This means the feature, once enabled, may still allow some messages from unknown senders to ensure that users do not miss important communications.
In addition, WhatsApp is testing the ability for users to “like” status updates. This new functionality, observed in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.17.21, allows users to react to statuses—comprising text, images, and videos that disappear after 24 hours—with a heart emoji, similar to Instagram stories. This reaction feature, shown as a heart icon at the bottom right of the status, is gradually being introduced to users.
This update aims to simplify how users interact with status updates, aligning WhatsApp’s functionality more closely with that of Facebook and Instagram, where quick reactions to posts are commonplace. Users will soon see who has reacted to their statuses, enhancing engagement within the app. This feature is anticipated to be available soon in an upcoming app update on both iOS and Android platforms.
