WhatsApp is releasing new ‘Block’ shortcut feature allowing users to block contacts from notifications

Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp has announced a new ‘Block’ shortcut feature that will enable users to block a contact with fewer taps. 

Quick Facts

• The Block shortcut feature is meant to avoid unknown and untrusted contacts
• The option will be accessible in two places – within notifications and chat option – if a user receives a message from an unknown number
• Users cant use this option for saved contacts as they might accidentally tap on the block action when replying
• WEBetaInfo revealed that the shortcut will be launched in the upcoming update of the app

On Thursday, WEBetaInfo reported that the messaging app is developing a new block shortcut within the chat option in the chat list. The feature is designed to save time without opening the conversation so blocking undesired contacts will be easier in the future.

As of now, WhatsApp developers have added it to the Beta version of the app. However, another update by WABetaInfo reveals that the developers are creating a shortcut to block contacts from notifications as well.

The same rules apply to the new block shortcut in notifications. The option will be visible on the notifications bar only if the sender of the message is not on your contact list. 

This is to prevent users from blocking their contacts from the notification panel by mistake. It is accessible to users signed up for WhatsApp Beta through the Google Play Beta program.

The messaging app has begun to test the block shortcut in the chat list and the message notification as well. Over the last few weeks, WhatsApp developers have created several features such as the availability of proxy servers worldwide, the option to report status, companion mode, PiP on video calls for iOS users, call and chat indicators, and many more. 

What is the Block shortcut feature? How to use it?

The Block shortcut feature provides an easier way to block untrusted contacts from your phone – be it from the chat list or notification bar. To secure other contacts from accidental blocking, WhatsApp is only permitting the option for unknown numbers. 

Block shortcut in chat list

As of now, the option to block a contact on WhatsApp is slightly difficult to access. A user has to enter the chat, select the three dot-menu on top, click on More and then select the Block option to restrict access to them. 

WhatsApp’s new shortcut lets a user block contacts from the chat list. By long pressing on a chat, you will see a three-dot menu generated on top. Click on that and find the new block feature. 

WABetaInfo spotted this feature in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.2.4.

Block shortcut in notification

WhatsApp, with two billion monthly active users, has turned into one of the most popular instant messaging apps. With new security updates and interesting features, it keeps a user entertained and satisfied. 

However, the app is also gaining coverage as a medium for circulating promotional and spam messages. To block contacts sending these messages, a user needs to open the chat but Whatsapp is currently testing a block shortcut in notifications in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.2.5.

WABetaInfo reports that the option will be available beside the reply button in the notification only for unknown senders. That way, a user might not tap the block shortcut in message notifications from trusted contacts. 

In addition, if the block shortcut is present for every contact, people could click on the option while trying to select the reply button.

Block and Report Contacts FAQ

Can you block and unblock a contact multiple times on WhatsApp?

Yes, you can block and unblock a contact countless times, unlike Instagram which has a few restrictions.

Is it possible to know if you’re blocked?

Although there are signs that indicate a user has blocked you, WhatsApp does not notify a person if they are blocked. The app wants to protect user privacy at any cost so there isn’t a sure-shot way of knowing if you are actually blocked.