May 29, 2026, 12:30 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
WhatsApp is working on a new feature that many users have long desired. In the future, it will be possible to log out of your account directly in the app without having to delete WhatsApp. Chats and important settings will remain intact. Initial testers can already try out the feature in a current beta version for Android.
Log Out of WhatsApp Without Losing Chats
Until now, there was no real way to temporarily log out of your WhatsApp account. Those who wanted to stop using the messenger for a while had to remove the app from their smartphone and then set it up again. This process involved additional effort.
This is set to change. In the Android beta version 2.26.21.9, selected testers can use a new logout button. This was reported by the online magazine “WABetaInfo.” With the new feature, you can log out of your account directly within the app. Unlike uninstalling, previous conversations remain intact.
Other data is also not deleted. This includes the saved chat history, personal notification settings, and login data on the respective device. After logging in again later, users can use the messenger at the same point as before.
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New Option in the Account Section
According to WABetaInfo, the new feature is located in the “Account” section within the settings. Those who wish to log out will first be guided through a short confirmation process. Only then will the account be logged out.
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With the new offering, WhatsApp expands the existing options for using the messenger. Users will no longer need to resort to uninstalling if they want to temporarily stop using the service. Instead, a simple logout directly in the app should suffice.
WhatsApp Highlights Existing Alternatives
In connection with the new feature, WhatsApp also points out existing options. Users can now use two different WhatsApp accounts simultaneously on one smartphone.
Additionally, the messenger recommends existing security features for accessing the app. These include fingerprint lock, facial recognition, or device PIN. These methods are intended to help protect chats from unauthorized access.
The logout feature is currently being gradually rolled out to more participants in the beta program. When the update will be available to all users is not specified in the WABetaInfo report.