Supreme Court Tightens Grip on WhatsApp Privacy Update as New Features Bring Relief to Users

We live in a digital world where our conversations, memories and relationships are stored inside a small screen. So when questions arise about privacy, concern is natural. Amid this backdrop, the WhatsApp Privacy Update has once again come under legal scrutiny. On one side, there is strict questioning from the judiciary. On the other hand, WhatsApp is rolling out user-friendly features to make communication easier.

This is not just a corporate legal story. It directly affects millions of Indian users whose privacy and convenience both matter deeply.

Meta and WhatsApp Assure Compliance in Supreme Court

Recently, Meta and WhatsApp informed the Supreme Court of India that they would comply with the directions issued by the appellate tribunal NCLAT. The court had earlier expressed serious concerns over data sharing practices and the complicated process for users to withdraw consent.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal assured a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant that within three months, by March 16, the companies would follow the directions. These include restricting data sharing for non-core services and providing a transparent opt out option for users who wish to withdraw consent.

However, the matter does not end there. The Competition Commission of India has strongly argued for enforcing a five-year ban on data sharing for advertising purposes. According to the regulator, failure to impose such restrictions could distort competition in the messaging and online advertising markets.

The legal battle is still ongoing, and the next hearing is scheduled soon. For WhatsApp, the road ahead remains challenging.

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New Schedule Message Feature Amid Judicial Scrutiny

While facing legal pressure over the WhatsApp Privacy Update, the company is simultaneously working to improve user experience. A new Schedule Message feature is expected to roll out soon for iPhone users.

This feature will allow users to compose a message in advance and set a specific date and time for it to be sent automatically. No more staying up until midnight to wish someone a happy birthday. No more forgetting important office reminders.

Users will be able to view and manage scheduled messages in a dedicated section within chat information. They can also delete a scheduled message before it is sent. The feature is expected to work in both individual and group chats.

In a time when privacy concerns are under the spotlight, WhatsApp seems to be balancing legal compliance with efforts to introduce more thoughtful, user-friendly tools.

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Group Message History Makes Conversations Easier

WhatsApp has also introduced the Group Message History feature. When a new member joins a group, admins can now share between 25 and 100 recent messages to help them understand the ongoing conversation. The company states that this feature maintains end to end encryption, ensuring that user security remains intact.

Trust, Transparency and the Digital Future

Today’s users want more than just new features. They want transparency and trust. The court’s strict stance signals that digital platforms must operate with greater accountability.

For WhatsApp, the challenge lies in complying with legal standards while maintaining user confidence. For users, it is important to stay informed, understand privacy settings and remain aware of updates.

The coming months will be crucial in defining how technology and regulation find balance in India’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information and media reports. It is intended for informational purposes only. For legal or technical decisions, readers should rely on official statements and authorized sources.