CALIFORNIA (Kashmir English): Messaging app WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a new feature that will make it easier and more extensive for users to view status updates, even in some cases, statuses from unknown numbers.
According to reports, the company is working on making the status feature part of the Chats tab to make it more prominent in the app. This change has been seen in recent beta versions that are being tested on both iOS and Android platforms.
Under the new feature, a carousel of status updates will be shown above the Chats tab, which is somewhat similar to Instagram Stories.
However, this feature will not appear automatically, but the user will have to pull the chat list down, after which the statuses will appear—just like stories are seen in Telegram.
The order of status updates will be according to the user’s activity. The statuses of people who are most connected will appear first The option to add a new status will be at the top and the statuses of muted contacts will be shown last.
In addition, statuses will automatically disappear after 24 hours and will also include music, stickers, and other features. This feature is still in development and is likely to be introduced to users soon.
The aim of this initiative is to further increase user engagement.
WhatsApp begins testing username system to enhance privacy
As a part of the much-anticipated feature of the app, WhatsApp has started testing usernames with a small group of beta testers in Android and iPhone phones.
It has been one of the most important updates regarding privacy, which people have been waiting for quite a while in 2026.
The latest update, according to the sources at WABetaInfo, will enable people to contact and interact without giving away their mobile numbers. Users will be able to come up with unique usernames, which they can use for communication. This move would ensure users enjoy better privacy since they would feel more confident using usernames, which no one else will know.
In addition to this feature, WhatsApp also plans to provide users with a 4-digit secret code. In such a case, if someone knows about the user’s identity through the username, the person will require another key for connecting, ensuring additional protection from spam.
However, a phone number will still be required for creating a WhatsApp account; it just won’t be visible anymore.
How to Use User Name Feature in WhatsApp
The ability for users to choose their username straight through their settings can now be done easily by simply accessing the app’s profile menu where they can pick the ‘username’ option.
Additionally, it can now be possible for users to link up their WhatsApp username with their current usernames in Facebook or Instagram. This feature is still being tested and may soon become available for everyone.
