Meta has launched default end-to-end encryption on Messenger for calls and chats which makes them even safer and protected. Loredana Crisan, Head of Messenger said that the changes also include a suite of new features.
With the end-to-end encryption also called (E2EE), all Messenger chats and calls will be protected and accessible only to the users themselves. Crisan added that Meta’s protective wall and features were worked brought forth after diligent work by its team of “engineers, cryptographers, designers, policy experts, and product managers”.
What is end-to-end encryption on Messenger?
It’s a protective measure designed and implemented by Meta for Facebook and Messenger to keep its chats and calls secure and accessible by concerned users only. The end-to-end encryption means only the users who were involved in the interaction will be able to check on them which elevates their privacy and gives users a sense of relief from the possibility of unauthorized access by others.
Meta adds that this advanced security feature has been available since 2016 but only as an option. However now, the company has brought this by default, and will soon be available to all users worldwide.
“Since 2016, Messenger has had the option for people to turn on end-to-end encryption, but we’re now changing private chats and calls across Messenger to be end-to-end encrypted by default,” Meta writes in a blog post.
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What does the end-to-end encryption on Messenger do?
The end-to-end encryption on Messenger provides an extra layer of protection to your chats and calls. In Meta’s words, the security system guards the content of your messages and calls the moment you send them and reach their destination. As a result, nobody (that means including Meta too), can peek through what was sent or said in between the air.
“The end-to-end encryption means that the content of your messages and calls with friends and family are protected from the moment they leave your device to the moment they reach the receiver’s device. This means that nobody, including Meta, can see what’s sent or said unless you choose to report a message to us.”
Besides the encryption, Messenger chats have also got a range of new features for users that Meta adds are important to the community.
With a new update, you will get end-to-end encryption, safety, and control features. You will also have the ability to determine who can message you and an app lock feature at the same time, report, block, and message requests will continue to exist on the app.
Here are the new features alongside the default end-to-end encryption on Messenger
Now you can edit a message on Facebook Messenger
Have you ever been in a situation where you sent a message to a person that was intended for someone else or wished that you wished to phrase it differently? Meta will now let you edit your messages up to 15 minutes after being sent. Likewise, you can report abuse and Meta will see the previous message before being edited.
Disappearing messages
The disappearing messages can now last for 24 hours. If you want your message not to stay forever in the conversation, this feature is very handy. You may also be delighted that you can report inappropriate messages and Meta will notify you if someone takes a screenshot of a disappearing message. But remember, this feature is only available to the conversations that are end-to-end encrypted.
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Control on read receipts
Now, you can decide if you want to let others see when you have read their messages. If you don’t want to be in a situation to urgently send a reply after “seeing” their messages, execute this feature to your benefit.
Upgraded photo and video quality
Meta is now addressing one key complaint regarding photo and video quality. They are compressed to enable faster uploads but with the new update, users will be able to multimedia in Messenger in better quality.
Additionally, new layouts have been added, and accessing photos and videos is easier than ever. Meta is also testing HD media and file sharing improvements and that might roll out to global users in the coming months.
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Voice message speed
Meta now allows users to play voice messages at 1.5x or 2x speeds and start playing a voice message from the last paused point.
End-to-end encryption on Messenger in Nepal launch date
Meta says that the end-to-end encryption on Messenger plus a host of new features will roll out immediately including in Nepal but still, some users might take a little while to get them on their app. The rule of thumb is you may want to update the Messenger app to its latest version on your Android or iOS device to raise the possibility of getting all the new features.
