WhatsApp is developing an optional in-app browser for its iPhone app that would let users open any link shared in chats without leaving the app, according to WABetaInfo.
A new "In-app browser" option under Settings and Chats would let users enable the feature or continue opening links in their default browser. Users would also be able to clear cookies, cache, and other browsing data. The feature would also expand existing support for certain business links.
I've been mystified why this isn't a widespread complaint. In-app browsers are entirely for the app maker's benefit and have none for the user and they've been a scourge for over a decade. Virtually every time I'm in one I go hunting for the "open in external browser" button, which the app often makes difficult to find.
I really wish Apple would add a global feature to avoid the use of "in app browsers" altogether.
Never have I thought, wow, this link would sure be better to open in a more limited browser without my extensions, cookies, and with a whole lot of presumable tracking.
Exactly. This is just another way to collect more data from you.
Haha, with Meta? What’s even the point when they’re already collecting data on pretty much everything you do anyway? lol
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