WhatsApp’s intention to move forward with the gradual integration of new functions continues. A few days ago we learned that polls could be coming soon and that video calls of up to 32 people are being tested. Today we know that WhatsApp will block screenshots and screen recordings of ephemeral photos and videos that are sent and received through the app. This ends a security issue intrinsic to a function itself whose motivation was none other than the duration of single-use content.
On November 1, WhatsApp will block the capture of ephemeral photos and videos
A few months ago they arrived on WhatsApp single-use photos and videos or ephemeral. This is a type of content that we may send via individual or group conversations with the purpose that this content is only available once for viewing. However, until now, users could take screenshots or screen recordings capturing this ephemeral content without the other user being notified.
📝 Beta WhatsApp for iOS 22.21.0.71: what’s new?
WhatsApp releases blocking screenshots to view images and videos once for some beta testers! https://t.co/fXvDQIlSxi pic.twitter.com/tIiR3FpBNs
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) October 4, 2022
But it will end. The WhatsApp beta has introduced a change that will take effect on next November 1. The ability to capture a screenshot or video of the screen will be blocked to prevent this misuse of the original function. In fact, with this announcement also comes the cancel viewing and sending any type of single view content from whatsapp web or desktop version.
Related article:
WhatsApp starts testing video calls for up to 32 people
The reason is very simple. The maneuvers to perform captures or recordings in desktop operating systems are much more complex than blocking them from an application. This is why users will not have the option to receive or send this type of content from the desktop application or the web version.