In April 2020, WhatsApp limited the number of forwarded messages users could send to other groups in an attempt to curb fake news. At the time, WhatsApp’s restrictions were only being enforced in Brazil. Now, this feature is rolling out worldwide.

Just one time

Starting with WhatsApp for Android beta 2.22.7.2, Android users globally are unable to forward messages already sent to one of their groups. According to 9to5Mac, WhatsApp last week implemented the same restrictions on WhatsApp iOS beta 22.7.0.76.

If you are the originator of a message, there are no limitations on the number of times it may be forwarded. If you receive a previously forwarded message, you’ll be able to forward it to one more group chat. After that, you’re unable to send it any further.

Some beta testers are experiencing the restrictions, but they will roll out to all users in the coming days. We’ve tested forwarded images on an iPhone running the stable version of WhatsAppp 2.22.78. At the moment, forwarding restrictions are not in place.

WhatsApp to come

Another beta feature allows users — using WhatsApp 2.22.8.11 — to see if a number that texted or called has WhatsApp installed after tapping on it.

WhatsApp is also planning to replace the camera tab with a communities tab. According to WABetaInfo, the community tab groups related groups together. WABetaInfo says it’s too soon to say what this feature will offer, “…but we know that a community also lets us reach everyone at once by sending messages to all their members if we are a community admin”. It also looks like users will create or join Communities. Perhaps that’s where all your street, area, or homeowner’s association groups will turn up.