WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that brings back a familiar concept with a modern twist: short, temporary status updates similar to Instagram Notes. The Meta-owned messaging platform now allows users to share brief text updates that appear prominently for their contacts.
What the Feature Offers
The new “About” status gives users a space to:
- Share what they’re up to or any life updates.
- Post conversation starters to engage friends.
- Indicate availability—such as why they might not be able to chat.
WhatsApp notes that this isn’t entirely new. In fact, the “About” section was the app’s original feature before it evolved into a secure messaging platform. The relaunch makes these updates far more visible than before.
How It Works
- Your About status will now appear at the top of one-on-one chats and on your profile.
- Contacts can tap your status to reply directly, making it more interactive.
- By default, updates disappear after 24 hours, but users can customize the timer to make them vanish sooner or stay longer.
- Privacy controls allow you to choose whether your status is visible to contacts only or more broadly.
While similar in concept, WhatsApp’s version is currently simpler than Instagram Notes:
- No short looping videos.
- No music-sharing integrations. However, if adoption grows, WhatsApp may expand the feature with richer media options.
The feature is rolling out globally on mobile devices starting this week, giving users a new way to express themselves beyond traditional messaging.
