WhatsApp could soon introduce dedicated parental control features aimed at making the platform safer for younger users. According to a recent report by WABetaInfo, the Meta owned messaging app is testing a new system that allows parents to manage secondary WhatsApp accounts linked to their own primary accounts.
The feature was spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.1.30 and is still under development, suggesting that an official rollout may take some time.
WhatsApp Parental Controls How Secondary Accounts May Work
As per the report, WhatsApp is developing a new account structure where parents can link a child’s secondary account to their main WhatsApp profile. These secondary accounts are expected to be designed specifically for younger users, with built in restrictions enabled by default.
The parent and child accounts would be connected through a secure linking process, establishing a clear relationship between the two while ensuring that messages and calls remain private.
Limited Features for Safer Messaging
One of the key safety measures under consideration is limiting messaging and calling on secondary accounts to saved contacts only. This could help prevent children from receiving messages or calls from unknown numbers something WhatsApp currently does not restrict by default.
Such controls would make it easier for parents to reduce unwanted interactions without completely blocking access to the app.
Activity Updates Without Breaking Privacy
In addition to contact restrictions, WhatsApp may also share limited account and activity updates from the child’s secondary account with the parent’s primary account. These updates are not expected to include message content or call details.
The report notes that end to end encryption will remain fully intact meaning chats and calls will stay private. Shared information is likely to focus on general account activity or changes to important settings rather than conversations.
No Release Timeline Yet
WhatsApp has not officially confirmed these parental control features or shared a launch timeline. Since the tools are still being tested and refined it could take several months before they are made available to all users if they are released at all.
Once launched however this feature could mark a significant step toward making WhatsApp more child friendly allowing parents to set age appropriate boundaries while giving younger users a safer way to stay connected.