WhatsApp Rolls Out New ‘Advanced Chat Privacy’ Feature

WhatsApp is launching a new feature called Advanced Chat Privacy, designed to prevent participants from sharing the contents of conversations outside the app. This optional tool is available for both one-on-one chats and group conversations.

Once enabled, Advanced Chat Privacy blocks all forms of content sharing beyond WhatsApp. This includes disabling chat exports and goes even further by preventing automatic media downloads and stopping integration with AI assistants. In essence, anything discussed within the chat stays strictly within WhatsApp.

However, it remains unclear whether the feature restricts users from taking screenshots. WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, has been contacted for clarification, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.

According to WhatsApp, this feature is particularly useful in sensitive group settings where participants may not know each other well. Example use cases include support groups for health issues or discussions surrounding community organizing.

This rollout marks the first phase of Advanced Chat Privacy, with WhatsApp promising additional protections in the future. The feature is currently being deployed globally, though it may take several weeks to reach all users.