WhatsApp developing Restricted Chat feature for Android

WhatsApp is developing a new privacy feature for Android called ‘Restricted Chat’ that allows users to limit specific conversations to their primary mobile device. Once a chat is marked as restricted, it will not sync to linked devices, such as WhatsApp Web or other connected phones.

This feature builds upon the existing ‘Advanced Chat Privacy’ controls. Under these combined protections, users in a restricted conversation will be unable to export the chat, media will not be automatically saved to the phone’s gallery, and messages cannot be shared with Meta AI.

The feature was recently spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.36.5. While it is currently under development and not yet available to the general public, it aims to provide enhanced security for sensitive information, particularly for users who access their accounts via shared or office computers.