CALIFORNIA: Facebook-owned WhatsApp is set to bring back a much-requested text status feature which is currently rolling out to beta testers of the app.
With the launch of Snapchat-like ephemeral status updates on WhatsApp, the text status updates were discontinued, much to the disappointment of users. But the latest beta update hints at a return of this feature.
WhatsApp beta update version 2.17.95 brings back the old feature in the form of ‘About’ which is visible on your profile. When you will get the update, it will automatically be set to the last text status update you did before updating your app.
To set a status, tap on the three dots on the top-right corner and head over to Settings. Next tap on your own photo, and then tap on ‘About and phone number’. Just like old times, you will get a set of default status messages you can choose from, including Available, Busy, At school, At work, and more. Alternatively, you can tap on the pencil button to type out your own status message.
Do note that this status feature is currently only reflecting on the WhatsApp Android beta app. There’s currently no word on when the company will officially roll out the feature for everyone. In case you want to use the feature now, you will have to enroll for the beta program.
