SOME WhatsApp users will soon be able to send a NEW type of text.
WhatsApp is testing the ability for chatters to create polls inside the app.
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We’ve heard about this feature in leaks previously.
But the sleuths at WABetaInfo have discovered that polls are now in the Android beta test app.
That means beta users will soon be able to trial creating polls.
And eventually, the feature will roll out to the general public too.
According to the latest leak, WhatsApp users will be able to share polls with other members in a group.
And they’ll be able to add up to 12 options on the poll.
However it’s possible that this cap may grow or shrink before the feature is ultimately released.
You’ll be able to access the feature through the “chat action” page, where you’d also choose to send documents, locations or contact profiles.
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Although it’s currently in development on Android, Polls will likely work in the same way on iOS and desktop too.
Sadly there’s no telling exactly when the new feature will be released.
If you want to try the latest WhatsApp features first, follow our guide below to join the beta.
How to get WhatsApp beta
To download WhatsApp beta for your smartphone you need to go to Google Play on your Android and search for WhatsApp.
Scroll down the page until you see “Become a Beta Tester”.
Tap the “I’m In” button and then click “Join” to confirm.
Now all you have to do is wait for the update to the beta version of the app.
Joining the WhatsApp beta on iOS is more difficult, and has limited capacity.
Follow Apple’s guide here.
WhatsApp safety trick
While you’re waiting for polls, there’s an important feature you should activate.
You can actually set WhatsApp to have its own lockscreen.
This means if you pass someone your phone to use for a short time, they wouldn’t be able to get into your WhatsApp.
To set this up you need to head to your WhatsApp settings.
Then click “Account” and then “Privacy”.
From here, you can switch on “Screen Lock” with either Touch ID or Face ID on iPhone.
You’ll also be able to pick a duration time for when the ID is required again.
Now whenever you go to open the app, it’ll ask you for your prints or a picture of your face to check it’s really you reading your private chats.
You can still read and quick reply to messages in your notification window, so the tool isn’t foolproof.
You’ll also be able to answer WhatsApp calls.
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This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk
