WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature aimed at enhancing user flexibility on its messaging platform. A recent teardown of the latest beta version for Android has indicated that the service may soon enable users to log out of their accounts from their primary devices. This update would allow individuals to take a break from WhatsApp or switch accounts without needing to delete app data from their smartphones.
New Logout Feature to Offer Data Management Options
The anticipated logout feature was identified by Android Authority and AssembleDebug during a teardown of WhatsApp beta version 2.25.17.37 for Android. It appears the feature is either still in development or undergoing internal testing. According to the reports, users can find the logout option within the Settings > Account section.
Illustration of WhatsApp’s upcoming logout option
Photo Credit: Android Authority/ AssembleDebug
The logout feature presents users with three distinct choices: Erase all Data & preferences, Keep all Data & preferences, and Cancel. Selecting the first option will remove all chat history from the user’s device, whereas the second option retains the data for later access if the user chooses to log back in.
If users select Keep all Data & preferences, they will be logged out while their chats, files, and media remain accessible on the phone. This means users can quickly retrieve their content upon re-logging into the app.
This new feature is likely to be beneficial for users wishing to pause their WhatsApp usage without losing their information, as the app currently lacks a traditional “log out” option. Users typically have to uninstall the app if they wish to stop using it temporarily.
At this time, there has been no confirmation regarding the official rollout date for the logout feature. It is anticipated that beta testers will receive access first, followed by a broader release for all users on the stable version of the app.
