WhatsApp is testing a major interface change that puts Status updates at the top of the main Chats tab, rather than in a separate tab. This feature, seen in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android and iOS, is meant to make Status updates more central in the app, similar to how Stories are featured on Instagram.
WABetaInfo reports that WhatsApp plans to show Status updates right in the chat list, so users can see them without switching tabs. This is a change from WhatsApp’s usual approach, where Status updates have their own “Updates” tab.
WhatsApp is moving these features to the Chats tab, following a trend on other Meta platforms where short-lived content helps increase engagement. The update is still in development and not available to users yet, but since it has appeared on both major mobile platforms, it could be released to everyone soon.
How does the new WhatsApp status feature work?
The new Status integration on WhatsApp is designed to feel familiar to users of other social apps. Here is what the evidence from the beta versions reveals about its functionality:
- Pull-to-Reveal Interface: The Status tray will not be visible by default at the top of the chat list. Instead, users will have to pull down from the top of the screen to reveal it, an interaction pattern similar to how Stories work in Telegram.
- Instagram-Style Carousel: Once revealed, the interface displays a horizontal carousel, similar to Instagram Stories. The first option is a shortcut for users to publish their own Status update, followed by updates from their contacts.
- Relevance-Based Ranking: WhatsApp will rank and display Status updates based on the relevance of the contacts. The priority will be placed on the people a user interacts with most, ensuring the most important updates appear first in the list.
- Muted Contacts Section: At the end of the tray, users will find an entry point to view hidden Status updates. These are updates shared by contacts that the user has previously muted.
- Familiar Status Tools: Like on Instagram, Status updates on WhatsApp will continue to disappear after 24 hours and will support creative tools for adding stickers, music, and other effects.
There is currently no official release timeline for this feature. However, with WhatsApp testing it in beta versions for both Android and iOS, it is likely only a matter of time before it rolls out to all users.
In summary, WhatsApp is preparing to give its Status feature a prominent new home in the Chats tab, using a pull-to-reveal carousel that prioritizes updates from your closest contacts, bringing the app’s design more in line with other social media platforms.
