WhatsApp releasing Block shortcut feature for beta Android users

WhatsApp is releasing a new block shortcut feature for beta Android users. With this update, users will now be able to block unwanted contacts straight from the chat list and notifications section. At present, the Block Shortcuts feature is available only to some select beta testers.

Earlier the Meta-owned platform was working to develop these two new entry points for blocking contacts in a simple and easy way. In this current beta update, the company is finally rolling out the features. This means, to block somebody now you don’t need to go to their chat info. Get the details in this article below.

WhatsApp enabled block shortcut feature

WhatsApp has enabled the ability to block users right within the chat list and notifications. In a previous article released by WABetaInfo, the reliable WhatsApp news source reported about WhatsApp beta for the Android 2.23.2.4 update. In this report, the news source mentioned the block shortcut feature which was under development process at that time.

According to the report, the WhatsApp developers team was working to provide an alternative way to block unwanted and untrusted contacts. Along with this, the platform was also developing one more entry point for the same function in WhatsApp beta for the Android 2.23.2.5 update. Finally, both the two shortcuts for the block function are available for testing.

In an available screenshot, you can see both block shortcuts. The first entry point is added to the chat list. For this, you need to open the chat options. However, this shortcut may also be visible within the app header to some users. This feature will save time and make the process much easier and faster as you won’t need to open the conversation to block a contact.

The second one is visible within the notification bar from where you can block any contact right away. Although, this shortcut will appear only when you receive a message from any unknown contact.

The block shortcuts will reportedly add an extra layer of security for you along with saving you time while blocking unwanted contacts. It will also prevent spam and phishing attacks. As mentioned earlier these two entry points are currently available only to some select beta users that install the latest 2.23.2.10 beta update from Google Play Store.

Some users may also get these shortcuts in previous 2.23.2.8 and 2.23.2.9 updates. Those who haven’t received these features will get them in the coming updates.