Leaving a WhatsApp group has always been a controversial action, as all chat members were notified instantly, leaving privacy completely out of the picture. However, one of the latest additions to the app from the Meta group is the ability to leave a group chat completely silently, with only the group administrators being notified. WhatsApp argues that this change meets the need to protect users’ privacy and ensures that leaving a group is not an awkward or unpleasant situation.
WhatsApp news
The instant messaging application owned by the Meta group, WhatsApp, has recently undergone numerous changes, improvements, and even new features with the aim of enhancing the user experience and, above all, providing greater security and privacy regarding shared information. One of the most recent changes concerns privacy, and although it is not a tool per se, it is very well thought out. It involves the removal of notifications when a member of a group chat leaves the group.
Until now, every time a group member left the chat, everyone was notified, which could create an awkward situation. However, from now on, when a user leaves a group, only the administrators will be notified, not the other participants.
How to leave a group?
The process is simple and does not require any external apps or special settings. Just follow these steps in the official app:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Go to the group you want to leave.
- Tap the group name at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down until you find the “Exit group” option.
- Confirm your decision when the app prompts you.
Once done, you will stop receiving messages from the group, and your name will disappear from the participant list, without any visible notification being sent to everyone.
What happens after leaving a group?
Now, once you leave a group, you will still have access to the chat history, but new messages will not be updated. This change makes leaving groups a much more discreet action, especially useful in work, family, or social chats where you don’t always want to give explanations.
Frequently asked questions
Who gets notified when I leave a WhatsApp group?
With the recent privacy update, only the group administrators are notified when you leave. Other participants in the chat will no longer receive a notification, making your exit much more discreet.
Can I still see the group messages after I have left?
You will still have access to the chat history (messages sent before you left), but you will no longer receive any new messages or updates from the group. Your name will also be removed from the active participant list.