WhatsApp has initiated testing for a novel feature that will enable users to link their email addresses to the app on both iOS and Android devices. This development comes as the messaging service strives to provide an alternative method for users to log into their accounts. Additionally, WhatsApp is reportedly working on a function that will allow users to share polls within channels. A feature tracker has disclosed information on how voting within WhatsApp channels will operate, in anticipation of its rollout on the beta testing channel.
At present, WhatsApp allows account access through the input of a user’s phone number and a subsequent one-time password (OTP) sent via SMS. In the latest WhatsApp beta versions for iOS 2.23.23.77 and Android 2.23.24.10 (source from feature tracker WABetaInfo), users are given the option to enter and verify their email addresses as a secondary login method. It is also emphasized that email addresses will remain confidential and will not be visible to other users.
The feature tracker indicates that using an email address for login will serve as an alternative to receiving OTPs through SMS. This is particularly helpful for users traveling without an international roaming plan. However, users must initially provide a phone number to access this feature.
To add an email to a WhatsApp account, users can navigate to the settings menu and select Account > Email Address. After entering their email address, users will need to verify it to ensure it is their own. Gadgets 360 has not confirmed the availability of the email address field in the recent WhatsApp beta version available on the Google Play Store.
In related news, WABetaInfo has also identified a new feature currently under development that is expected to be introduced in future beta updates. WhatsApp is set to enable users to share polls in channels, albeit with a slight difference in functionality — user votes will be kept private to safeguard their anonymity.
At this moment, WhatsApp restricts users to posting photos on their channels, either by capturing new images or sharing existing ones from their devices. The polling feature is anticipated to debut in an upcoming beta version before being made available in the stable release after testing.
