Meta has added several new status updates to its popular WhatsApp messaging service. A status is a way to share ephemeral updates. They disappear after 24 hours and can also contain photos, videos and GIF animations, among other things.
Not every status you share may be suitable for all your contacts. WhatsApp, therefore, gives you the flexibility to update your privacy settings per status from now on. This way, you can choose who can see your status every time. Your most recent audience selection will be saved and used as the default for your next status.
Meta also adds a function to record voice messages (up to half a minute) and share them via a WhatsApp status. Also new are Status Responses, a quick and easy way to respond to updates from friends and close contacts. To respond, you must swipe up on status and tap on one of the eight emojis.
The new status profile ring also appears around a contact’s profile picture when they share a status update. The ring is visible in chat lists, group member lists, and contact information. Finally, when you place a link in your status, WhatsApp now immediately shows a visual preview of a website – just like you are used to when you send a regular WhatsApp message.
Like personal chats and conversations, WhatsApp status is protected by end-to-end encryption. The updates will be rolled out “over the next few weeks” and made available worldwide.
