WhatsApp is reported to be developing a new feature for its iOS application that will enable users to incorporate their Instagram profile links into their account. According to assertions by a feature tracker, this new addition aims to permit users to display their social media profiles within the same area to facilitate easy connections for their contacts. The feature was reportedly discovered within the latest beta version of the iOS app; however, it remains in development and beta testers will currently be unable to experiment with it.
WhatsApp Might Let Users Add Instagram Links
As per WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo, the instant messaging service is working on a feature enabling users to include their Instagram profile links. It was identified on WhatsApp for iOS beta app version 25. 2. 10. 72, available through the TestFlight beta program. As stated previously, this feature is not presently functional in this version.
Referring to a screenshot shared by the feature tracker, the new option is being integrated into the Links section of the user profile interface. This section now features a new option called Add Links, allowing users to input their Instagram username by pressing a plus icon.
The feature tracker noted that this feature currently does not require users to verify the profile they are adding. This implies that users can merely input the username and display the Instagram profile on their account. However, this implementation may raise issues related to privacy and identity theft. It is anticipated that the company will implement an authentication layer prior to launching the feature for users.
Importantly, this feature is described as optional, meaning iOS users are not obligated to link their Instagram profiles if they choose not to. A similar feature is also provided to business accounts on WhatsApp. Nevertheless, those users are required to log into their Instagram account manually to verify the profile link.
While this feature is presently limited to Instagram links, it is conceivable that WhatsApp might broaden it to include users’ other Meta accounts such as Facebook and Threads. It remains uncertain whether the company will permit the addition of profile links to external social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) or Snapchat.
