WhatsApp is Testing Pinned Messages in Group Chats, Working on a Username Picker and IP Address Protection

WhatsApp has begun testing a feature allowing users to pin talks on the latest beta version of the popular messaging program. Users on the most recent beta version of the app can pin a message to the top of a group chat for up to 30 days. According to a feature tracker, the Meta-owned messaging service is also working on a new username picker for the app and a feature that will protect a user's privacy when making calls on WhatsApp.

Users on the beta testing channel can now pin chats to the top

Users on the beta testing channel can now pin chats to the top of a group chat with the upgrade to WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.21.4. Feature tracker WABetaInfo discovered the feature, and it is presently available to a few testers who have updated to the app's most recent testing version. Long-pressing a message brings up a new Pin option, which keeps the message at the top of the chat window and immediately accessible even after additional messages have been written and received.

When pinning a message to the top of the chat window, users can choose whether the pin will endure 24 hours, seven days, or 30 days. After pinning a message, users can unpin it from the top of a chat list at any moment. Meanwhile, the same beta version includes support for a revamped share sheet with current design features similar to those found in other parts of the chat experience.

WhatsApp is implementing a new feature called Protect IP address in calls

When calling another user, you may reveal your IP address, as with many other apps that offer voice and video calls. To remedy this issue, WhatsApp is implementing a new feature called Protect IP address in calls, which WABetaInfo discovered on WhatsApp beta for iOS 2.23.20.73.

Your calls will be routed through the company's server when this function is enabled. However, the setting also includes a notice informing users that using the feature may slightly reduce the quality of voice calls. Signal, another encrypted messaging app, has had this feature for years.

WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to select a username to share with other WhatsApp users

Meanwhile, the Meta-owned messaging service was recently observed developing a new username picker for iOS 2.23.20.71. WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to select a username to share with other WhatsApp users, allowing them to chat with strangers without giving their phone number.

According to WABetaInfo, choosing a username will be optional, and alphabets, numerals, and other special characters will be supported. These usernames will be unique, and WhatsApp will allow users to modify them after choosing one. However, WhatsApp has yet to hear any news on when these new features will be available in the app's stable edition.