Remember when WhatsApp was just a simple messaging app? Those days are long gone. With its latest updates, WhatsApp is transforming into a more interactive and public platform. While messaging remains its core, Meta has introduced a series of upgrades to enhance daily use. Recent changes focus heavily on improving the “Status” feature, along with other subtle tweaks to the user experience.
WhatsApp’s New Status Update: The upcoming WhatsApp update will let users see people’s statuses directly from their status viewer list. This change adds a new layer of interaction to the status section.
Private Contact Mentions on Status Posts: WhatsApp now allows users to mention contacts in their status updates. However, unlike typical tagging methods, the person mentioned will get a private notification without it being displayed on the public status post. The mentioned person can also reshare the status they were tagged in, fostering more engagement.
Image Search to Combat Misinformation: To help tackle misinformation, WhatsApp is introducing an image search feature. Users can search images on the web to verify their source. This allows them to quickly check the authenticity of memes, images, or news articles. Accessible through the three-dot button when viewing an image, this tool is already available for beta users with the latest Android update.
Call Links: WhatsApp is also rolling out “Call Links.” This feature lets users share a link to a voice or video call that anyone can join at any time. It’s especially useful for group chats, where ringing the entire group may not be ideal.
WhatsApp’s Update: More Public?
With these updates, WhatsApp is shifting towards a more public media platform, similar to Instagram or Facebook. Features like usernames and status upgrades suggest this new direction. If Meta continues along this path, WhatsApp’s 2 billion users may soon see the platform evolve into a space for broader social interaction, beyond just keeping in touch with close friends and family.
