WhatsApp is once again taking inspiration from Snapchat with a feature that could significantly impact user privacy and behavior. Since 2017, WhatsApp States have allowed users to share updates that disappear after 24 hours. Now, a new privacy-focused feature could alert users when someone takes a screenshot of their State.
WhatsApp may block or detect screenshots
Recent findings in the code of WhatsApp version 2.25.12.19 for Android suggest the company is working on a way to detect screenshots in its Status feature. The reference “x.status_screenshot_detection” hints at a tool that either warns users about captures or blocks them entirely.
WhatsApp already blocks screenshots of profile pictures and single-view photos, showing users a message about the restriction. While there’s no official confirmation yet, this new detection tool would likely follow the same line, preventing users from saving private content without consent.
Android 14 is enabling stricter screenshot controls
Interestingly, this upcoming feature may be supported by Android 14’s new API, which gives apps more control over screenshot behavior. This same technology is already in use in apps like banking services, where security and privacy are critical.
The shift toward better privacy tools reflects the broader push across tech platforms to protect personal data. If WhatsApp does move forward with this screenshot detection feature, it will not only align with Snapchat’s long-standing alert system but also offer users more peace of mind when posting sensitive content.
No release date confirmed yet
So far, Meta has not officially announced when this feature will roll out. However, the code leak suggests that WhatsApp is actively developing it, likely preparing for a wider release later this year.