WhatsApp tests a new in-app browser setting to open any link
WhatsApp is testing a new in-app browser setting.
The short version
- You will be able to open any link inside chats.
- A new toggle lets you switch back to your default browser anytime.
- WhatsApp says it cannot see the links you share or open.
Why it matters to you. If you hate it, you can toggle right back to your phone default browser with one tap.
WhatsApp, which owns Facebook and WhatsApp, is working on a new setting that will let you open any link inside the app instead of jumping to Safari or Chrome, according to 9to5Mac. The change was uncovered in a recent TestFlight app build by WABetaInfo, a blog that tracks early software tests.
Marcus Mendes, a Brazilian tech podcaster and journalist who has been closely following Apple since the mid-2000s, reported on the software code. WhatsApp started testing in-app browsing for certain business links last year. Now the company is expanding the test to cover every single link sent in a chat.
You will find a new in-app browser switch inside your chat settings. When you turn it on, every website you tap opens right inside your chat screen.
WhatsApp also added a privacy note in the code to calm users down. The company says it cannot see the links shared in your chats or which ones you actually open. There is no release date yet for when the test hits public phones.
For anyone running a business on their phone all day, fewer app switches might save a few seconds every hour. Just make sure you do not accidentally close your chat when you hit the back button.
