WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to find their locked chats using a secret code. This feature was spotted in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android (v2.23.21.9) by WABetaInfo.
Currently, WhatsApp allows users to lock a chat using a passcode or biometrics for added privacy. Once a chat is locked, it is moved from the Chats section to the Locked Chats folder. To access this folder, users have to swipe down on the Chats screen, click on Locked Chats, and authenticate their identity by providing the passcode or biometrics.
The new feature will allow users to find their locked chats by typing a secret code in the search bar of the app. The secret code can be a word or even an emoji. Once the secret code is created, typing it in the search bar will show all the locked chats.
However, it is unclear whether typing the secret code will just show the locked chats or if it will also unlock the chat and allow access to the conversation. It is also unknown what will happen to the Locked Chats folder once a secret code is created.
The secret code feature will also address an issue with locking chats on the platform. Currently, when a chat is locked on a smartphone or tablet, it is not locked on Companion devices. With the new feature, the chats locked on a smartphone or tablet will also be hidden on Companion devices.