WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is reportedly working on a new feature that enhances end-to-end encryption (E2EE) visibility for individual and group conversations. The development comes shortly after Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, acknowledged challenges with E2EE, leading to delays in implementing third-party chats in Europe due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Spotted by WABetaInfo, a feature tracker, the new feature was identified in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.6.11, released on March 9 through the Google Play Beta Program. The feature, currently available to some beta testers, is likely in the early stages of development, with more changes expected.
The reported feature introduces a label reading “end-to-end encrypted” accompanied by a lock icon below the contact or group name. The label disappears after a few seconds, reverting to the last seen status in individual chats or displaying participants’ names in group conversations. This additional layer of encryption visibility aims to provide users with a clear indication of their message security status.
While WhatsApp already displays an E2EE label on the home screen and during voice and video calls, this new label within chats offers a proactive reminder about encryption status, making it more prominent for users. The move could be seen as a response to Meta’s recent concerns about E2EE with third-party chats in Europe.
Meta highlighted potential risks associated with encryption once data reaches the third-party platform, emphasizing its responsibility for encryption up to the user and during data transit. To address this, Meta has urged messaging apps to sign agreements and use the Signal protocol or compatible alternatives.
As WhatsApp continues to refine its encryption features, this new development aims to keep users informed about the security of their conversations in light of evolving challenges in the digital markets landscape. Stay tuned for further updates on the rollout of this encryption visibility feature on WhatsApp.
