WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.23.19: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.23.19.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows users to add verified Instagram profile links, and it's available to some beta testers!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Verified Instagram profile link |
| Status? | Rolling out |
| Compatibility? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.23.19 has been designated as a compatible update. |
| I've installed this update but I don't have this feature. Why? | This feature is available to some beta testers, and it is rolling out to more users over the coming weeks. |
| Thanks: | shw_9876 and Radu Oncescu, for testing and reporting. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.22.10.75: what's new? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that improves the emoji reaction panel in chats, groups, and channels! |
VERIFIED INSTAGRAM PROFILE LINK
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.22.27 update, we announced that a feature to verify Instagram profile links was under development. This feature would allow users to link their Instagram account through Meta's Accounts Center and confirm that the Instagram profile they add to their WhatsApp account genuinely belongs to them. Once verified, the Instagram link on a WhatsApp profile would display the social icon, providing other users with confidence that the link is authentic and officially associated with the account owner. It appears that WhatsApp is now testing this feature with the public, as some beta testers have started seeing signs of the new functionality appear in their app. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.23.19 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows users to add verified Instagram profile links!
As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can now explore a new way to ensure that the Instagram accounts they share are legitimate. By using the Accounts Center, users can link their Instagram accounts to WhatsApp to display the social icon and the handle directly for their profile link. This icon signals to anyone viewing the profile that it is officially connected to the account owner and it is not a random or fake URL.
Previously, WhatsApp users could add any Instagram link to their profiles, regardless of whether they owned the account, which created the potential for confusion or impersonation. With the new verified profile link system, only accounts confirmed as belonging to the user will show the Instagram icon alongside the account's handle. If the link isn't verified, WhatsApp will instead display a generic link icon together with the full URL. It's important to mention that this verification only applies to the Instagram link and does not verify the WhatsApp profile as a whole. Users should understand that while the linked Instagram account is confirmed, the verification does not indicate overall WhatsApp profile authentication.
Once verified, the profile link gives other users confidence that the connection is genuine, which can prevent impersonation and increase credibility. This provides a clearer distinction between authentic and potentially misleading links on WhatsApp profiles. This is especially useful for public figures or brands that want to showcase authentic social media accounts on their WhatsApp profile. It may also allow users to highlight collaborations or partnerships by linking verified accounts directly, giving context and credibility to their professional.
Users who choose to link their Instagram account through the Accounts Center can now provide a layer of trust that was previously missing. Even with this system in place, adding unverified links remains optional, so users who prefer not to verify their profiles can continue to do so. This ensures that no one is forced to connect their WhatsApp account to the Accounts Center in order to share a profile link. It also gives flexibility to users who simply want to display an Instagram link without undergoing the verification process. It's worth noting that this verification process focuses on Instagram at this time, though Meta may allow more profile links from other platforms to be added to the profile in the future.
A feature that allows users to add verified Instagram profile links is available to some beta testers who install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store, and it is rolling out to even more people over the coming weeks.
Stay up-to-date on WhatsApp news by following WABetaInfo on X. You can also discover other new features for WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web/Desktop, and Windows.
Do you like this news? Please, let us know on X: we love hearing your feedback! If you're curious to see where you can find WABetaInfo, there is a dedicated page where you can discover our services.
In addition, we have set up a Discord Server where you can chat with other people, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest announcements from WABetaInfo.