What Should You Expect As WhatsApp’s Controversial Policy Change Comes Into Effect on May 15?

Although WhatsApp delayed its privacy changes after widespread criticism from users a few months ago, it is now coming to effect on May 15. There are some key pointers to remember before these changes kick in, particularly if you’re not willing to agree to the policy change which WhatsApp conveniently calls an “update”. 

What will be different?

WhatsApp has clarified that an account will not be deleted if the user doesn’t agree to the new changes. However, users stand to lose a lot of the core functionality over time. Firstly, WhatsApp will reportedly send constant reminders/notifications to agree to the new terms, though the Facebook-owned chat application doesn’t specify the frequency of these notifications. 

Read - Indian Govt Testing New WhatsApp Alternative Known As ‘Sandes’

Further, those who haven’t agreed to the new policy changes will see their access to the chat list shrinking gradually. But users will still be able to reply to messages from the notifications window or even answer incoming voice and video calls for a limited time. 

“After a few weeks of limited functionality, you won’t be able to receive incoming calls or notifications and WhatsApp will stop sending messages and calls to your phone,” WhatsApp said. Unfortunately, WhatsApp didn’t mention a precise timeframe for “few weeks”, but we’re guessing it will be sooner than most users anticipate. 

Also read - Following A Vocal Backlash, WhatsApp Delays Its Privacy-Related Changes By Three Months

Though WhatsApp has been sending notifications to users that haven’t agreed to the new policy since January this year, it decided to put the plan on hold after being widely panned over privacy issues. WhatsApp then decided to clarify its position with front-page newspaper ads to convince the populace. 

Despite this controversy, there is currently no indication that WhatsApp’s popularity is waning. While apps like Telegram and Signal witnessed a massive surge in downloads when WhatsApp’s policy changes first surfaced, millions continue to use WhatsApp to keep in touch with their family and loved ones.    

Read - Signal App Downloads In India Surge Ahead Of WhatsApp, Facebook And Instagram