WhatsApp tests iPhone style secret chat previews on Android

WhatsApp is testing pop-up chat previews on Android that allow users to read incoming messages without sending blue tick read receipts. GSM Arena, Android Authority, SammyGuru, Nokiamob, and Mezha.net all reported on the upcoming feature. While iOS users have long had access to a pop-up preview workaround by long-pressing a chat, the new Android feature will also include scrolling support. [1][2][3][4][5]

The new preview option targets users who keep read receipts turned on but want to view incoming messages privately. Android Authority and GSM Arena both reported that reading messages from notifications is not always practical, especially if a user has already swiped the notification away or has received too many messages to keep track of. [1][2]

The messaging application was launched in May 2009 and is owned by Meta Platforms, as FTMQ Tech reported earlier. WhatsApp accounts require users to register an active mobile phone number in international format, which acts as the unique identifier for account verification and recovery. [8][9]

The feature expands on recent updates to the application interface. As FTMQ Tech reported earlier, WhatsApp recently introduced four group chat features, including dedicated filters to organize unread mentions, direct replies, groups, and unread chats. [9]