WhatsApp is introducing its own version of a status update feature, similar to Instagram Notes. This new feature allows users of the Meta-owned messaging app to post a short text update that can be seen by others. You can use this space to let people know what you are up to or what is new in your life.
The company suggests users could post something that serves as a conversation starter, or they could use the space to share why they might not be available to talk at present. While this addition may be new to many, the company points out that this About feature was actually WhatsApp’s first feature. Before WhatsApp focused on secure, private messaging, it allowed people to quickly share short updates like this.
With the feature’s relaunch, WhatsApp is making users’ About status more visible than before. Others will now be able to see your status at the top of their one-on-one chats with friends and on users’ profiles. Plus, users can tap on someone’s About status in a chat to reply to it directly.
Like Instagram Notes, the WhatsApp About status will disappear in a day by default. However, the company says users can adjust the timer if they want to have it disappear more quickly or stick around longer than 24 hours. Users can also decide whether their About status can be seen by just their contacts or if it is more publicly visible.
At launch, the feature is not as robust as Instagram Notes, which also supports short, looping videos and offers integrations that let you share the music you are streaming. But if the new feature sees wide adoption, those types of improvements could come in time.
WhatsApp says the feature is rolling out to users on mobile devices starting this week.