WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature that will enable users to establish an alternate profile within the app, according to a feature tracker. This innovation, being worked on by the Meta-owned messaging service, will allow different profiles to be shown to selected users, thereby enhancing privacy options for its clientele.
The feature, known as the “alternate profile”, was identified in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android. However, beta testers using version 2.23.24.4 will find that the feature is still under development and is not yet available for testing.
The tracker provided insights that the new feature will be accessible under the settings menu, specifically in Privacy > Profile photo > Alternate profile. Currently, WhatsApp offers users four options for profile visibility: Everyone, My contacts, My contacts except…, and Nobody. By selecting a specific audience, users can limit who sees their primary profile picture.
A screenshot shared by WABetaInfo illustrates the functionality of the alternate profile feature. Users are expected to set an alternate photo and name, which will be visible to those who do not have access to their main profile image.
Additionally, the tracker noted that WhatsApp beta version 2.23.20.20 has introduced a new video feature that allows users to navigate video playback using gestures. Following the update, beta testers can double tap the left and right sides of the screen to fast forward or rewind, eliminating the need to drag the seek bar.
This double tap action, which is already familiar to users of various video streaming platforms like YouTube, provides a convenient way to revisit sections of a video or skip parts that have already been viewed. The implementation of this gesture is anticipated to roll out to all users in subsequent versions of the application.
