Meta has announced that it will be introducing new features on the WhatsApp Status.
WhatsApp Status is a common way for app users to share updates with their contacts. The feature was launched in 2017.
The statuses which may include photos, videos, GIFs, text and more automatically disappear in 24 hours.
Meta states that WhatsApp status is protected by end-to-end encryption enabling one to share privately and securely.
The new features that have been rolled out and will start unfolding in our smart devices in the coming weeks include:
Private Audience Selector
This feature helps the user to choose who views their status each time they update it. Users’ most recent audience selection will be saved and used as the default for their next status.
Voice Status
Meta is introducing the ability to record and share voice messages of up to 30 seconds on WhatsApp status. Voice status can be used for sending more personal updates, especially if you feel more comfortable expressing yourself by talking rather than typing.
Status Reactions
The feature will provide a quick and easy way to respond to status updates from your contacts. One can now quickly reply to any status by swiping up and tapping on one of eight emojis stipulated emojis. One can still reply to a status with text, voice messages, stickers and more.
Status Profile Rings for new updates
The feature allows one to be up to date with the statuses placed by their loved ones. This ring will be present around one’s contact’s profile picture whenever they share a status update. It will be visible in the chat lists, group participant lists and contact information.
Link Previews on status
Now when you post a link on your status, you’ll automatically see a visual preview of its content, just like when you send a message. Visual previews make your statuses look better and also give your contacts a better idea of what the link is before they click.