WhatsApp update – Two huge new features are coming to your Android smartphone

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WhatsApp is used by over a billion people every single day to send messages and share media.

The app is regularly updated by the firm, meaning new features are constantly introduced.

And it appears three new additions are on the horizon, according to WABetaInfo.

WABetaInfo is a publication renowned for analysing development and beta builds of WhatsApp in order to gain an insight into forthcoming features.

Here is a list of the three new tools that could arrive for your Android smartphone very soon.

Blocked screenshots

This is easily the most controversial of the forthcoming trio; early versions of WhatsApp have shown the firm is working on a new “Authentication” feature for Android that will require the user’s fingerprint to be scanned for the app to be opened.

However, a new beta for the software on Android, 2.19.106, has shown this tool will block screenshots from being captured if enabled.

An alert informing the user of the prevention within the app said: “Fingerprint security – When enabled, fingerprint is required to open WhatsApp and conversation screenshots are blocked.

“You can still reply to messages from notifications and answer calls if WhatsApp is locked.”
WABetaInfo announced the controversial feature on Twitter and many fans expressed their disappointment in response.

Animated stickers

Back in October WhatsApp introduced stickers that it branded as a way to “help you share your feelings in a way that you can’t always express with words”.

However, it appears the firm is also working to bring animated stickers to fans, according to WABetaInfo that showcased them in action.

The animated stickers in WhatsApp appear to be incredibly similar to those already found in one of its biggest rivals, Facebook Messenger.

WABetaInfo said animated stickers can be included in regular sticker packs for the app.

While the outlet admitted the release date for the functionality is unknown, it did declare it will be available for WhatsApp Web and iOS in addition to Android devices.

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