This frequently requested feature is now available to a small set of beta testers via TestFlight. Here’s how it works.
Feature likely to be officially released soon
As spotted by WABetaInfo, Meta rolled out a beta build of WhatsApp on TestFlight that lets group members choose whether to share recent chat history with a new member they just added, “up to 100 recent messages shared in the group over the last 14 days”.
The site also notes that “messages shared using this feature are highlighted in a different color, making them easier for new members to recognize in the conversation”.
Having access to past messages is a common and useful feature across many messaging platforms, helping new members get up to speed on recent discussions and access important information, depending on the context of the group chat.
Now, WhatsApp is gearing up to roll this out, as select beta testers can already see the feature ahead of the broader rollout.
Here’s WABetaInfo on what they found:
To check whether this feature is available, users must add a new member to the group. From the group chat info screen, users have to select the “Add Member” option. Once selected the member from the contacts list, the option to share recent messages may appear at the bottom of the screen. If it does, users can decide to share up to 100 messages, allowing the new member to quickly catch up on recent conversations. However, WhatsApp also allows users to select a smaller number of messages if they prefer to limit what is shared.
The site also notes that there is a transparency aspect to the feature, as it could be potentially misused by sharing the chat history unbeknownst to other participants:
WhatsApp ensures transparency by letting everyone know that recent messages have been sent to the new member. To maintain clarity, WhatsApp adds a new message to the group chat, indicating the name of the user who shared the messages with the new group member. The sharing process uses the messages and encryption key on the device of the user who added the new member. Recent messages are again protected by end-to-end encryption and are securely delivered to the new member.
As is the case with most beta features, there isn’t a timeline for a wider rollout yet. But given that this is also being tested on Android, it probably won’t be too long until its official release.
Accessory deals on Amazon
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
