CHECK ME OUT
WhatsApp unveils update similar to controversial ‘verification’ feature on X – but it’s only available for certain users
The history of the blue checkmark is marred with controversy thanks to Elon Musk's hostile takeover
WHATSAPP is offering a sneak peek at a new identity verification tool that mirrors one of X's most hated features.
The popular app submitted an update to the WhatsApp Messenger Beta for iOS 24.16.10.72 this week.
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A beta program offers insiders a special look at new software before its official release - meaning only some users will see the update for now.
Per the update, WhatsApp is preparing to replace the green badge for verified channels and businesses with a bright blue checkmark.
Beta testers now have access to the feature, which is eerily reminiscent of checkmarks on X, formerly Twitter.
The platform's rollout of its new verification process was marred with controversy.
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Verification on Twitter served as a way for users to know that a profile belonged to a real person or organization rather than an impersonator.
It was reserved for accounts of notable public figures, journalists, and companies.
Months after the takeover, Musk made checkmarks available for paying users only.
Average users could attain verification by subscribing to Twitter Blue, while organizations were required to shell out thousands per month.
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Musk swiftly removed legacy checkmarks for users who were previously verified on Twitter.
Under current site policy, users must be X Premium subscribers to wield the power of a blue checkmark.
Verification on WhatsApp has some key differences.
While some verified accounts are subscribed to Meta Verified - a paid subscription - the company has confirmed that others are owned by "a notable person, brand, or entity."
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Meta verifies businesses that submit documents to prove their identity, after monitoring their activity to ensure they meet platform standards.
Businesses can use the badge to build customer trust as they respond to inquiries in the messaging app.
It is currently unclear when the present-day badge will transform into a blue checkmark for users worldwide.
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WhatsApp says it will gradually become available to more beta testers in the coming weeks.
Industry experts see the design change as an attempt to align WhatsApp with Meta's brand identity.
Its sister platforms, Instagram and Facebook, use blue checkmarks rather than green badges.
Meta continues to roll out new features across its brands as it struggles to keep pace with competitors.
It seems all the tech giants are pushing to integrate artificial intelligence into their apps - perhaps to justify the time and money poured into training their models.
Google's Gemini AI, for instance, is a key feature of the upcoming Pixel 9 lineup. The virtual assistant can craft emails, take photos, and more.
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Recently, Meta introduced Meta AI for WhatsApp, billed as a productivity tool that also boasts generative functionality.
The feature launched during last year's Meta Connect event and it is powered by Llama 3 AI, branded as the company's most advanced model yet.
WhatsApp – a quick history
Here's what you need to know...
- WhatsApp was created in 2009 by computer programmers Brian Acton and Jan Koum – former employees of Yahoo
- It’s one of the most popular messaging services in the world
- Koum came up with the name WhatsApp because it sounded like “what’s up”
- After a number of tweaks the app was released with a messaging component in June 2009, with 250,000 active users
- It was originally free but switched to a paid service to avoid growing too fast. Then in 2016, it became free again for all users
- Facebook bought WhatsApp Inc in February 2014 for $19.3 billion / £14.64 billion
- The app is particularly popular because all messages are encrypted during transit, shutting out snoopers
- As of 2024, WhatsApp has over 2.78 billion monthly users globally