WhatsApp tests link verification system

Screenshot: Android Police

WhatsApp is helping you verify links you receive. Android Police reports seeing a beta feature last month that allows you to verify links and URLs through a Google Search. The Meta messaging app seems to be rolling out to more beta testers and should be working on every URL online. When you long-press a link you receive in the app, there's an option saying: "Get link info on Google." That will take you to the Google app's search window showing relevant details about the selected URL.

A different version of this feature shows a "Search on web" option above frequently forwarded messages. It's unclear when WhatsApp will roll out this feature to all users. It is an important safety feature, so we hope it becomes widely available soon.

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WhatsApp finally rolled out Passkeys for the iPhone

Image: WhatsApp

Great news for iPhone users! WhatsApp is finally rolling out Passkey support, letting you ditch the login hassle. Now, you can securely log into your account using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.

This long-awaited feature (announced in October 2023) streamlines the login process, especially after being logged out. Passkeys replace traditional passwords with on-device authentication, making them more secure.

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WhatsApp beta hints at cross-platform compatibility

WABetaInfo

WhatsApp for Android beta update introduces a new screen called Third-party chats, according to WABetaInfo. The screen is not yet functional or accessible by users, but it suggests that Meta’s encrypted messaging app is preparing for cross-platform compatibility.

This version 2.23.19.8 beta update comes after the European Commission declared that Meta, WhatsApp’s owner, is a “gatekeeper” under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA requires gatekeepers to ensure the openness of their digital services and to interoperate with third-party messaging apps by March 2024. 

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You can now edit captions on WhatsApp after sending media files

WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that lets users edit captions for various media types, such as images, videos, GIFs, and documents, even after they have been sent. To use this feature, you must update your WhatsApp to the latest version (both iOS and Android devices).

The feature's rollout was delayed initially, but it is now widely available. You can check if you have it by long-pressing a recent captioned message. It has a limitation, though. You can only edit captions within 15 minutes of sending them and only from the device that sent them.

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