Facebook Update Brings Messenger Encrypted Chats 

Meta has released a large Messenger update that brings many of the service's features to encrypted conversations.

Meta said that the new update will enable users to use reactions, stickers (including GIFs),message-specific replies, forwarding, typing indicators, verified user badges and screenshot notifications.

"We know that people expect their messaging apps to be secure, private and provide them a space to be expressive. This is why we are continuing to introduce some of the rich features that you already love in Messenger to end-to-end encrypted chats."

The upgrade also lets users save photos and videos, and edit media before they send it. Meta has also finished bringing encrypted group chats and calls to Messenger, so users shouldn't have to worry that a family discussion might be exposed to snoops.

Meta doesn't expect end-to-end encryption to be the default for Facebook Messenger and Instagram until 2023. Users will need to use WhatsApp if they expect that convenience in the meantime.