California (Web Desk): WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a new feature for iPhone users that will allow web links to open directly within the app, eliminating the need to switch to an external browser.
WhatsApp first tested an in-app web browser for Android users in 2019. Last year, some beta testers were also given the ability to open business website links without leaving the app through beta version 25.14.10.72.
However, the feature required websites to use HTTPS and meet other technical requirements, limiting its availability for many links shared in chats.
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is now working on a new version that could support opening all types of links within the app. The feature has been spotted in WhatsApp beta version 26.41.10.72 for iPhone, available through Apple’s TestFlight platform.
How will the in-app browser work?
The proposed feature will add an “In-App Browser” option to WhatsApp settings. When users enable it for the first time, a message will appear at the bottom of the screen explaining that links will open directly in WhatsApp instead of Safari or another default browser.
The change will not be permanent. Users will be able to modify the setting at any time and return to opening links in their default browser.