Meta-owned WhatsApp is known for prioritizing user privacy, and it seems they’re taking things a step further with a new feature in development focusing on avatar privacy. While the official release date is yet to be announced, leaks suggest an upcoming update will allow users to control how their appearance is used in avatar stickers.
What We Know About the New Feature
Thanks to intrepid data miners at WABetaInfo, details about this upcoming feature are starting to emerge. Here’s what we can glean so far:
- Control Over Avatar Usage: The new privacy setting will reportedly give users the option to choose who can use their avatar to create stickers. This means you’ll have more control over how your digital likeness is used within WhatsApp conversations.
- Limited Information Available: Currently, there aren’t many details on the specific options available within this privacy setting. It’s unclear if users will be able to choose specific contacts, groups, or have entirely different settings for everyone.
Why Avatar Privacy Matters
Avatars are a relatively new feature on WhatsApp, allowing users to create a digital representation of themselves. These avatars can then be used as profile pictures or sent as sticker packs within chats. While avatars offer a fun way to express yourself, some users might be concerned about how their likeness is being used, especially in sticker form.
The upcoming privacy feature seems to address this concern by empowering users to manage how their avatars are utilized. This aligns with WhatsApp’s focus on user privacy, giving them more control over their digital footprint within the platform.
What to Expect in the Future
While the official release date remains unknown, WABetaInfo’s findings suggest the feature is currently being tested in the iOS beta version of WhatsApp. This means it’s likely to be rolled out to a wider audience in a future update, possibly first to Android and then iOS users.
Looking Ahead: A More Granular Privacy Experience
The upcoming avatar privacy feature is a positive step towards a more granular privacy experience on WhatsApp. It allows users to customize their privacy settings based on specific features within the app. We can expect WhatsApp to continue exploring ways to empower users with more control over their data and online interactions.
