Also known as: WhatsApp
Messaging platform that Russia has throttled in favor of state-backed alternatives, mentioned in Namibian policy debates on child social media use.
Key points drawn from coverage. Tap a point to see the original sentence.
The Namibian
WhatsApp accounted for the most used platform
“WhatsApp accounted for the most used platform, followed by TikTok and Facebook.”
Namibians spend N$928 million on data in three monthsThe Namibian
WhatsApp offers business offering
“The idea is (extremely) reminiscent of WhatsApp's business offering, but with that additional flair (and cost) that Meta can't quite muster.”
Telegram takes a page out of WhatsApp business bookThe Namibian
WhatsApp announced ability to send short video messages in chats
“The most recent update, announced yesterday, adds the ability to send short video messages in a WhatsApp chat – described as an improvement of the voice note feature.”
WhatsApp’s new update lets users send each other short video messagesThe Namibian
WhatsApp authenticates a laptop using QR code scanning
“This is how WhatsApp authenticates a laptop so you can use the desktop app for the messaging service.”
Goodbye passwords, hello passkeysThe Namibian
WhatsApp offers feature for replying to specific messages
“Just like you've seen in WhatsApp, iMessage and Telegram, replies are a simpler way to answer specific messages, rather than shouting into the void, hoping the person on the other end doesn't consider you a loon.”
Twitter’s DMs are being overhauledThe Namibian
WhatsApp boast end-to-end encryption
“Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp both boast end-to-end encryption, which means only the sender and the receiver are privy to the conversation, and this is the crux of the issue – regulators aim to force tech companies to hand over the encryption keys.”
Social Media Under Threat?Apple has removed Russia's state-backed Max messenger from its App Store. Moscow has promoted Max, which lacks encryption, while throttling WhatsApp and Telegram, and forcing state institutions to use it for communications.
6 June 2026 · The Namibian →
Apple has removed Russia's state-backed Max messenger from its App Store. Moscow has promoted Max, which lacks encryption, while throttling WhatsApp and Telegram, and forcing state institutions to use it for communications.
6 June 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibian lawmakers and child welfare experts are divided over whether to ban social media for children under 15, with supporters citing mental health and cyberbullying concerns while critics argue for evidence-based regulation rather than an outright ban. Experts also note that enforcement would be technically challenging given the ease of age verification manipulation.
8 March 2026 · The Namibian →