WhatsApp has started testing a new feature for the iOS platform that allows users to chat directly with third-party spies. This new feature, available with WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.37.10.70, allows individuals to create their own spies and interact with these digital assistants from within the app.

Currently being tested in only a limited number of countries and with a restricted user base, this feature aims to make the messaging experience more functional. Users can create up to five different spies through their accounts and manage them by personalizing them.

Agents are created via App Settings

WhatsApp had previously announced third-party spy support for the Android platform. Now, this innovation is reaching iPhone users with a beta update distributed via TestFlight.

Users can create a new spy from the app settings menu. During this process, they can give their spy a name and assign a profile picture. After configuration, WhatsApp provides the user with the API key necessary to manage the spy.

Control is Provided via API Key

A unique API key is generated by WhatsApp for each spy created. Users can copy this key using the “View API key” option and assign it to the external service where the spy is hosted.

This key allows the spy to contact the WhatsApp chat and grants full authorization. For security reasons, it is critical that these keys are not shared with third parties. Users can reset the existing key and create a new one at any time.

Data Security and Encryption Process Differ

Unlike standard individual chats on WhatsApp, conversations with third-party spies do not have end-to-end encryption. Messages are transmitted through a secure service managed by Meta. Therefore, spy developers can access the content sent to them.

However, spies cannot access other chats, individuals, or media documents on the user’s device in any form. Additionally, the disappearing messages feature is not supported in these private chats.

Feature is Being Expanded Gradually

This new feature, currently in the testing phase, is only available to a limited number of beta users. The company has not yet announced an official timeline for when the feature will be available to all iPhone users worldwide.

WhatsApp continues to roll out this new service gradually and continues to improve it based on user feedback.

What do you think of WhatsApp’s move to integrate with third-party spies? If you think this feature will change your daily messaging habits, don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments below.