Owned by Meta, WhatsApp is known for its innovative features in India. The instant messaging platform is now rolling out a picture-in-picture mode for video calls on iOS, according to a report.
Recently, 9to5Mac spotted and later The Verge reported that WhatsApp is rolling out picture-in-picture features for iPhone users. The feature reportedly allows users to use other apps during video calls without interruption.
With the picture-in-picture feature, WhatsApp on iOS users can reduce their video calls to a small window that sits on top of any app and continue their video call work. This will help users participate in a call while they can find relevant information for their call, browse the web or play any game.
According to The Verge, iOS users with the WhatsApp version 23.3.77 update will be able to access the feature. Additionally, the report adds that the feature is being rolled out gradually, so some users may have to wait.
Meanwhile, WhatsApp chief Will Cathcart criticized instant messaging app Telegram for its security practices. Telegram claims to offer a privacy-driven platform that offers end-to-end encryption for chats and calls. Cathcart pointed out that this security feature is not enabled by default in Telegram.
In his response to Wired’s article, the head of WhatsApp suggested that Telegram can share almost any confidential information at the government’s request. Cathcart tweeted: “Telegram is not end-to-end encrypted by default and does not offer any e2ee for groups.”
Additionally, he added in his tweet, “They (Telegram) have created another API that appears to allow access to user content for mass surveillance.”
In his latest tweet, Cathcart said: “I recognize that some will say I have a vested interest in criticizing Telegram. However, there are many other great end-to-end encrypted messaging apps that people can choose from. If you’re not going to use WhatsApp, use one of them – don’t use Telegram.” Both Telegram and WhatsApp offer end-to-end encryption. However, a Telegram user must enable it by simply opening their chat profile > Tap More > Tap Start Secret Chat. While WhatsApp about the security terms, he explains: “With end-to-end encryption, your messages are secured by a lock and only the recipient and you have the special key needed to unlock and read them. This is all done automatically: no special settings need to be turned on to secure your messages.” “