WhatsApp has released a new beta update for Android, version 2.25.33.11, through the Google Play Beta Program. This update brings new privacy tools that help users manage messages and control who can contact them.

The update brings a new feature called a Request Folder, which will store messages from people not in your contacts. This means unknown messages won’t appear directly in your main chat list, keeping your inbox organized and clutter-free.

WhatsApp is also working on a username-based communication feature, which will allow users to find and call others using a username instead of a phone number. This helps protect privacy and makes it easier to connect with people you don’t already know.

Image via WABetaInfo

The new privacy setting is called “Who Can Message Me” and has two options – Everyone and My Contacts. Choosing “Everyone” will show all messages in the main chat list, as usual. Choosing “My Contacts” will move messages from unknown senders to the Requests folder.

The Requests folder works like Instagram’s message requests. Users can see the sender’s name, profile picture, and message before deciding to reply, delete, report, or block them. Once a message is replied to, it moves to the main chat list. This feature helps reduce spam and makes it easier to focus on personal conversations.

When username-based communication arrives, messages from people using usernames will also appear first in the Requests folder. This ensures users can verify new contacts before starting a chat.

The Requests folder is currently under development and will first appear in the beta version. It will gradually roll out to all users in a future update. Stay tuned for more information.

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