The beta version of WhatsApp Web introduces the expected screen lock feature that improves user privacy. This feature, which was previously under development, is now available to a select group of beta contributors. This feature allows users to password protect the beta version of WhatsApp Desktop app, preventing unauthorized access.

Protect chats with screen lock

To enable this feature, users must update to the latest WhatsApp Web beta and join the official beta program. When enabled, user conversations are protected by a password prompt. The parameters of this function can be adjusted especially when a password request appears. If users forget their passwords, they must scan the QR code and log out and log in again.

This screen lock feature provides a noticeable privacy advantage. Even if an unauthorized person accesses the user’s computer, WhatsApp chats and messages cannot be accessed without a password. In particular, push notifications are suppressed when the screen is locked, further increasing privacy. This measure ensures the privacy of conversations and blocks attempts to access personal information.

The screen lock feature is gradually rolling out to more WhatsApp Web beta users with the latest version. WhatsApp is introducing new features in its beta version, including AI-generated stickers and multi-account option. In one of the last beta releases, we also saw the scheduled group conversations feature.