The world’s most popular instant messaging app has recently been on a positive streak delivering features that users have yearned for, from blocking screenshots in view once mode to allowing 31 participants in group video calls to the reply bar feature for quickly replying to images, videos, and GIFs.
However, there was one particular feature that WhatsApp users have been wanting and it is to have more control over video playback on the platform. Seems like Meta has answered their calls.
Latest WhatsApp Beta Introduces Double-Tapping Feature in Video Playback Controls
As per a report by WABetainfo, in its latest 2.23.24.6 beta update for Android, WhatsApp has included a new skip gesture for videos. The feature works similar to the one found on YouTube, where users can simply skip a video forward or backward by double-tapping on the left or right side of their screen. It also brings an end to the hassle of having to use the progress bar to rewind and fast-forward videos.
WhatsApp is currently testing the double-tap feature with users who have signed up for the beta program. The tool makes it easier and more intuitive for WhatsApp users who have grown accustomed to the video navigation method on popular video streaming platforms like YouTube or Netflix.
The report states that the upcoming playback controls allow users to skip a video forward and backward by 10 seconds. The button’s placement and feel are similar to those that can be found on YouTube.
WABetainfo opinioned that the new feature not only saves time but also enhances the app’s content navigation experience as users can now easily rewind to get to a particular moment or fast forward to skip past irrelevant portions of the video.
WhatsApp has not provided an exact date as to when the feature will be officially released but users can expect it soon enough in the upcoming updates.
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“Alternate Profile” Allows Users To Hide Their Personal Information From Unknown Numbers
In addition to the video playback controls tool, the Meta-owned messaging app is also working on a new privacy-focused feature called “Alternate Profile” that allows users to hide their personal information like profile picture and name from people who are not on their contact list. Users can also create an alternate alias by setting up a different profile picture that will only be visible to select contacts.
Reports suggest that Alternate Profile will be integrated into WhatsApp’s privacy settings, letting users hide their primary profile information in public and setting a different profile for specific contacts on their list.
The feature is currently under development and is yet to be released in beta. Once launched, users will be able to use Alternate Profile by going to Settings > Privacy > Profile Photo > My Contacts.
Users can restrict the visibility of their primary profile picture to only their contacts and create an alternate profile that will be visible to select contacts or unknown numbers.
The new privacy feature is a much-needed one considering that WhatsApp is a mobile-first platform and is connected to the users’ personal phone numbers. With Alternate Profile, users shall have more control over sharing their personally identifiable information with others.
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