FINALLY: WhatsApp launches Group Invitation Approval Setting

WhatsApp-logo

Ever since its launch a few years back, WhatsApp, became an internet sensation as everyone became hooked into it. It was especially very essential in Android users as they could not send images or videos to each other using the normal text application that came with the phone unlike iPhone users, who could do so through iMessage.

But let’s talk about the WhatsApp groups for a moment.

Just about everyone who uses Whatsapp is in a group chat, or ten. Being part of a group on the app that has revolutionised traditional texting is pretty easy.

You can request an add, join via invite link or form a group yourself and choose who to add on there.This is the ‘orthodox’ to go about it, but there are those group administrators who will add you to a group without your consent.

Even worse, there are the rogue ones who will serially keep returning you to the group no matter how many times you leave.

via GIPHY

Whatsapp now has a new feature that puts the power in your hands. With its latest update, users will be able to regulate how they join whatsapp group chats.

WhatsApp has announced the addition of a new privacy setting and invite system which will help users to decide who can add them to WhatsApp groups preventing spam additions that have been a pain point for many users.

The instant messaging app is bringing an invite system for groups to essentially give users the choice of joining the group.

Image result for Whatsapp

In a press note on Wednesday, WhatsApp explained that through the new privacy setting and invite system, users would have more control over the group messages they receive.

To enable this feature you need to head to Settings > Account > Privacy > Groups. There you will be greeted by three options which are “Nobody,” “My Contacts,” or “Everyone.”

APPROVE REQUEST

Selecting the “Nobody” option will mean that you’ll have to approve the request for joining every group to which you’re invited. Selecting “My Contacts” would mean that you can be added to groups by people present in your contact list. “Everyone” will allow you to be added to anyone’s group even if they are not in your contact list.

In the cases of “Nobody” and “My Contacts”, the person who is inviting you to a group will be prompted to send a private invite through an individual chat, which offers you a choice to join the group. The invite will have an expiry timer of three days and you will have to respond within that time frame.

Image result for whatsapp

These new privacy settings will begin rolling out to some users starting Wednesday and will be available worldwide in the coming weeks to those using the latest version of WhatsApp.

The update will come as a relief to many and will ultimately silencing the serial group admins who add everyone without prompting them.

CONSENT FOR ADDITION

Users have in the past complained about being added into groups they did not consent to and often having to leave the groups.

Image result for whatsapp

The update will also have an option for users to change into a dark mode for power saving or so as not to strain eyes with the white background.

WhatsApp status will also be updated to have those you interact with most appearing at the top as opposed to the current feed that ranks most recent statuses at the top.

Although this feature is being rolled out to some users on Wednesday, WhatsApp users will get this feature in the coming weeks and obviously will need the most updated of WhatsApp to use it.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *