Archive · 5 Oct 2026
WhatsApp Begins Rolling Out Restricted Chat to Beta Users
WhatsApp is testing a new setting called Restricted Chat.
Some people using the test versions of WhatsApp on Android and iPhone can try it.
They can switch it on for a conversation if they choose.
When it is on, people cannot automatically save pictures and other media from that chat.
They also cannot export the chat or use Meta AI in it.
Linked devices cannot be used for that conversation either.
WhatsApp says these limits are meant to make it harder for unofficial apps or AI agents to access chats.
Messages and calls still have end-to-end encryption.
WhatsApp has not said when everyone will be able to use the feature.
WhatsApp is testing Restricted Chat with select beta users on Android and iOS.
The feature is available to some users on Android beta version 2.26.36.4 and iOS version 26.39.10.20.
Users can optionally turn it on for individual conversations from the chat info screen.
Restricted Chat blocks automatic media saving, chat exports, Meta AI features, and use of linked devices in that conversation.
WhatsApp says the feature does not change end-to-end encryption, and has not announced a public rollout date.
- Who
- WhatsApp beta users on Android and iOS.
- What
- A limited rollout of Restricted Chat, an optional feature that restricts media saving, chat exports, Meta AI use, and linked-device access.
- When
- The feature is rolling out to select beta users; WhatsApp has not announced a public release date.
- Where
- Within individual WhatsApp conversations on Android and iOS.
- Why
- WhatsApp says the restrictions help prevent unofficial clients or AI agents from accessing a chat.
Restrictions
Access and availability
Controls within a conversation
Restrictions
WhatsApp says the restrictions help prevent unofficial clients or AI agents from accessing a chat.
Access and availability
The feature also prevents participants from saving media automatically, exporting the chat, using Meta AI, or accessing it on linked devices.
Rollout and protection
Restrictions
Restricted Chat adds optional limits while leaving end-to-end encryption unchanged.
Access and availability
It is currently available only to some beta users, and WhatsApp has not announced when it will reach everyone.
- Android beta version
- 2.26.36.4
- iOS beta version
- 26.39.10.20
- Availability
- Limited to some users enrolled in WhatsApp's beta programme
- How to enable
- Manually from the chat info screen for an individual conversation
- Restrictions
- No automatic media saving, chat export, Meta AI features, or linked-device use within the conversation
- Encryption
- Messages and calls remain end-to-end encrypted whether Restricted Chat is enabled or not
- Public rollout
- No date announced