On Thursday, WhatsApp introduced an array of new features designed to enhance its Status updates. The instant messaging platform, under Meta’s ownership, now enables users to create collages, add music, and utilize new stickers within their Status updates. This update aligns WhatsApp’s Status feature more closely with the Stories functionality found on Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, the company is reportedly developing a privacy feature that would allow users to select personalized usernames for their accounts.
New Enhancements to WhatsApp Status
Meta shared the details of these new features for WhatsApp Status in a recent blog post. The messaging application is rolling out four innovative tools that provide users with new methods for sharing updates through collages, music, and stickers. One of the standout features, termed “Layout,” enables users to create collaged photos for their status updates, functioning similarly to Instagram’s Stories.
A new music feature has also been introduced, which gives users the option to share songs as part of their status or convert them into music stickers for separate status posts. Since March, users have been able to add 15-second music clips to their photo statuses and 60-second clips for video statuses. With this latest update, these music clips can now be transformed into stickers or shared individually.
Additionally, the platform has rolled out Photo Stickers, allowing users to turn an image into a sticker for their status. Users can select a photo and employ the new “Add Yours” sticker feature to initiate conversations. This allows friends to respond with their own statuses, fostering community interaction.
Meta has confirmed that the new status features will soon be available to users, with a rollout planned over the coming months. The updates will remain end-to-end encrypted, ensuring visibility is limited to users’ saved contacts.
WhatsApp’s Username Feature in Development
In parallel, reports from WABetaInfo indicate that WhatsApp is working on a feature designed to allow users to create usernames, providing an alternative to phone numbers for initiating conversations. This functionality could enable users to establish unique usernames in future updates. The feature was observed in development within WhatsApp beta version 25.17.10.70 for iOS devices and is currently accessible through the TestFlight application.
Usernames can include a combination of alphanumeric and special characters, but they must not start with “www.” or end with domain extensions like “.com” or “.net”. It appears that usernames will need to be between 3 and 30 characters in length. Once a username is established, it will be discoverable by others, allowing them to start chats without needing the user’s phone number. However, existing contacts who have the user’s number saved will still have access to that information, aiming to enhance overall user privacy.
