WhatsApp is testing a new feature that displays status updates directly in the Chats tab. The feature is reminiscent of Instagram Stories and is currently being prepared in the TestFlight beta.
WhatsApp Status – the messenger's story feature – is relegated to the shadows for many users, hidden away in a separate updates tab. This could soon change: According to beta tracker WABetaInfo, the current WhatsApp TestFlight version on iPhone contains indications that status updates will soon be displayed directly in the Chats tab. Meta is also working on the Android version, suggesting that the feature will be rolled out across all platforms.
The idea isn't new – Instagram, Snapchat, and Telegram already prominently display Stories and Status updates on the main screen. WhatsApp had previously hidden the feature in a separate tab, which meant many users barely noticed it. By moving it to the Chats tab, Meta aims to significantly increase visibility and integrate the feature more seamlessly into everyday messaging.
How the feature works
Status updates are displayed as a horizontal carousel at the top of the chat tab – similar to Instagram Stories. The first entry is a quick access button to post your own status, followed by status updates from your contacts.
One difference from Instagram: The carousel is not visible by default. Instead, you have to pull down in the Chats tab to access the status bar – a concept that Telegram users will already be familiar with from its Stories feature.
The sorting is based on contact relevance. People you chat with most frequently appear first. This is to prevent status updates from infrequently used contacts from dominating the view.
WhatsApp feature: Not yet available to everyone
The feature is currently in TestFlight beta and is not yet accessible to users – WABetaInfo has only found code references indicating its development. It's unclear when Meta will officially roll out the feature. However, since preparations are underway on both iOS and Android, a release in the coming weeks or months seems realistic.
WhatsApp has recently received several major updates, including a completely redesigned CarPlay app. The Status feature in the Chats tab would be another step towards aligning WhatsApp more closely with the usage patterns already established on other social media platforms. (Image: Shutterstock / BongkarnGraphic)
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