WhatsApp is revamping its About feature, bringing back the classic text status notes in a modernized format. This update allows users to share brief status updates with their friends and contacts.
The About feature enables users to express their current status, availability, or mood using a short phrase or emoji, eliminating the need for sharing images or videos. The placement of About has been updated, now prominently displayed at the top of one-on-one chats and on user profiles. Users can interact with someone’s About by tapping on it within a chat. Similar to Instagram stories, About notes will expire after 24 hours, but users have the option to customize the duration through settings.
Visibility controls for About status have also been enhanced, allowing users to choose who can view their notes. This feature ensures that notes are only visible to selected contacts, preventing any unwanted exposure.
WhatsApp has begun rolling out the updated About feature, starting with smartphone users this week. The feature will be gradually accessible through the Settings menu. This reintroduction of the text status feature caters to users who prefer a simpler approach over the existing WhatsApp Status feature.
This update enhances user experience and provides more control over sharing personal status updates with specific audiences.