WhatsApp is developing a solution for users to take a break from the messaging service without nuking their account data. A new “Logout [internal]” option spotted in the WhatsApp 2.25.17.37 beta release by Android Authority presents users with the choice to sign out on their primary WhatsApp device while either retaining or erasing their app data and preferences.
For all intents and purposes, the only way that users can currently sign out of WhatsApp’s mobile app is to either wipe the app data from Android device settings or delete WhatsApp entirely on iOS. Linked devices running the web and desktop app versions of WhatsApp make it far easier by comparison, providing a clear log out button under the user profile.
The new Logout button is located in WhatsApp’s user settings below the account deletion button. The “Erase all Data & preferences” option does exactly that, according to Android Authority, while the “Keep all Data & preferences” option is better for taking some temporary respite from the service, or for users without dual-SIM devices who need to switch accounts, as the account will be exactly as it was left when you sign back in.
It isn’t clear when (or if) this developmental feature will be rolled out to the public, or if it will be available on both Android and iOS, given each currently has a different logout process. We have asked Meta for more information.
