WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.23.16.6.
What’s new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out safety tools when receiving messages from unknown phone numbers, and they are available to some beta testers!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Safety tools |
| Status? | Rolling out |
| Compatibility? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.16.6 is marked as a compatible update, but some lucky beta testers may be able to get the same feature by installing one of the following builds: 2.23.15.24, 2.23.16.3, 2.23.16.4, and 2.23.16.5. |
| I’ve installed this update but I don’t have this feature. Why? | This feature is available to some beta testers, and it’s rolling out to more people over the coming days. |
| Thanks: | Elementary Pancake, orirund, Thales, and Muhammad Hammad, for testing and reporting! |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.16.5: what’s new? WhatsApp is releasing a redesigned search bar! |
SAFETY TOOLS
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.16.5 update, we announced a redesigned search bar that aligns with Material Design 3. The introduction of a redesigned search bar further confirms their commitment to improving the interface of the app. However, WhatsApp not only has plans to enhance the app interface but also intends to introduce useful tools for users to help them feel more secure when receiving messages from unknown phone numbers. Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.16.6 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, some beta testers may be experimenting with new safety tools!
As you can see in this screenshot, the app will present a new screen the first time the user receives a message from an unknown phone number. With the new safety tools screen, WhatsApp aims to explain what users can do when receiving such messages. As always, they can block unknown contacts or report them to the moderation team. In addition, WhatsApp also provides users with some information regarding how to stay safe in chat by checking the profile name, the profile photo, and the country code of the phone number.
The safety tools not only highlight information about what users can do when receiving a message from unknown contacts, but they also introduce a new feature that ensures the recipient remains unaware of whether you have read their messages. This feature is especially useful when dealing with messages from unknown contacts and the “read receipts” option is enabled. In case you receive a message from a unknown phone number, the sender won’t be notified that you’ve read their messages until you choose to reply or add the contact to the address book, providing you with added privacy and control over your interactions.
The new safety tools are available to some beta testers that install the latest WhatsApp beta for Android updates from the Google Play Store, and they are rolling out to even more people over the coming days.
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