WhatsApp has started rolling out its new Restricted Chat feature to some users in its Android and iOS beta programs.
The feature was first spotted in development last month as an upgrade to Advanced Chat Privacy.
According to WABetaInfo, Restricted Chat is available to some users running WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.36.4 and WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.39.10.20.
What Restricted Chat Does
Restricted Chat is optional and is not enabled for conversations by default.
Users have to turn it on manually from the chat info screen.
Once enabled, WhatsApp displays a message inside the conversation and applies four restrictions to the chat.
Users in a Restricted Chat cannot:
- Automatically save media to their devices
- Export the chat
- Use Meta AI features inside the conversation
- Access the chat through linked devices
WhatsApp says blocking linked-device access can help prevent people from using unofficial clients or AI agents to access the conversation.
End-to-End Encryption Still Applies
WhatsApp says messages and calls remain protected by end-to-end encryption whether Restricted Chat is enabled or not.
The new feature adds extra controls on top of that encryption by limiting how content can be accessed or moved outside the conversation.
Public Rollout Still Unknown
WhatsApp has not announced when Restricted Chat will become available to all users.
For now, the feature is limited to some users enrolled in WhatsApp’s beta program.
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