WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature to enhance the interactive experience of viewing status updates. The upcoming feature involves the introduction of a reply bar for status updates, currently undergoing beta testing on both Android and iOS beta versions of the app. The simultaneous testing on both platforms suggests an imminent rollout to the stable versions of WhatsApp for Android and iOS.
The new reply bar is designed to encourage users to engage more actively with status updates, drawing a parallel with Instagram Stories’ reply bar that enables users to respond to each Story with a message. The reply bar in WhatsApp will be consistently visible at the bottom of the screen during status updates, eliminating the need for users to swipe up to access the reply or message option, a departure from the current design.
WABetaInfo, a platform that often shares insights into WhatsApp features, has provided a screenshot showcasing the anticipated feature. Users can tap on the reply bar to respond to an individual status update with a message. Although the beta version of the reply bar on WhatsApp does not currently support replying with GIFs, a feature available on Instagram, there’s speculation that WhatsApp might introduce this functionality in subsequent updates.
WhatsApp has been actively promoting its Status feature, and recent developments suggest the platform’s commitment to enhancing user engagement. Another noteworthy feature in the pipeline involves the ability to share WhatsApp Status updates on Instagram, mirroring the existing option to share Instagram Stories directly to Facebook stories. This forthcoming feature will enable users to seamlessly post their WhatsApp Status on Instagram without leaving the WhatsApp app.
Furthermore, there are rumors of WhatsApp developing a feature that allows users to search for contacts or messages using usernames instead of phone numbers. This feature is expected to provide an added layer of privacy for users who prefer not to disclose their phone numbers. It aligns with WhatsApp’s efforts to cater to privacy-conscious individuals and empower users with greater control over their personal information.
