Meta is currently testing a new feature on WhatsApp that will allow users to connect their social media accounts to their profiles within the messaging app. While this capability is already present for business accounts, the upcoming feature is specifically designed for personal accounts.
This feature was discovered by WABetaInfo in a beta iteration of WhatsApp for iPhone. Although it is not yet activated for users, a screenshot included in the report illustrates the functionality of the new option. Essentially, it will enable WhatsApp users to include links to their social media profiles, allowing others to access these profiles with a simple tap.
According to the report, “It appears that WhatsApp is focused on providing users with the ability to further customize their profile page, aiming to increase user engagement and make profiles more dynamic and informative. […] A new section will be integrated directly into the profile settings in the future, allowing users to select whether they want to add links to their social media accounts.”
At present, the only option available internally is Instagram, but it is anticipated that additional choices will be introduced before the public release, potentially including links to other Meta platforms like Threads and Facebook.
For WhatsApp business accounts, linking an Instagram profile necessitates signing in for verification, but this new beta feature does not require any verification. However, it is possible that Meta may implement a verification process prior to the official launch to mitigate risks such as impersonation. The report also emphasizes that this feature is entirely optional, and users have the choice to refrain from sharing their social media profiles with their contacts.
WhatsApp can be downloaded for free from the App Store, but the beta version is currently limited to select users on TestFlight.
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