WhatsApp Web to get ‘screen lock’ feature soon: All you need to know

According to a report, the feature has been under development since November last year.

Published on: Aug 14, 2023, 18:01:14 IST

By HT News Desk, New Delhi

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For its web version, Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly bringing a ‘screen lock’ option, with the aim being to enhance user privacy.

Also Read: WhatsApp to allow scheduling calls in group chats. What is the feature?

This is according to WhatsApp news tracker WABetaInfo, which also noted in its report that the messaging platform began developing the feature in November last year.

How does ‘screen lock’ work?

To explain this, WABetaInfo shared this screenshot:

WhatsApp's 'screen lock' feature (Image courtesy: WABetaInfo)

As seen in the image attached above, WhatsApp Web is locked due to screen lock. If the feature is enabled on your device, you will need a password to unlock WhatsApp Web. Also, as per WABetaInfo, people can configure screen lock by choosing when to be prompted by the password.

Also Read: WhatsApp developing ‘Passkeys’ for user verification, says report. Check details

Additionally, if users forget the password, they can sign in by scanning the QR code, which is the existing facility to open WhatsApp Web.

How to check if ‘screen lock’ is enabled

For this, open your account on the messaging platform and go to Settings. If activated, you will see a screen lock entry point here.

Advantages of ‘screen lock’

The report stated that one of the advantages of this option comes in terms of privacy; if someone gains access to an individual's computer when the latter is away, the former will not be able to access WhatsApp chats and messages as they do not have the password.

Also Read: WhatsApp gets screen-sharing for video calls

That the push notifications will not appear when the screen is locked is another advantage, the story said.

Availability

It is being tested with select beta testers, with the feature being available to only those who use WhatsApp Web's latest beta version. The ability will be rolled out for even more people over the coming weeks.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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