WhatsApp for Android appears to be testing a new feature that allows users to control privacy settings for status updates, according to details shared by a feature tracker. The feature, known as status privacy confirmation, is being tested in the beta version of the app for the Android platform. According to the report, it can allow users to quickly select an audience before sharing a status update. This development comes amid another report suggesting that WhatsApp may also be testing a new look for its status update page.
WhatsApp Privacy Confirmation status
According to WhatsApp beta feature tracker WABetaInfo, the instant messaging platform’s new status privacy confirmation feature is rolling out on WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.12.27. According to the report, users can see a new window that allows them to select the contacts they want to share their status updates with.
Gadgets 360 managed to verify the availability of this feature in the second version of the WhatsApp beta for Android. It is claimed to be currently available to beta testers who install WhatsApp beta through the Google Play Store beta program. Those who do not yet have access to it could get it in the coming days, it is speculated.
Privacy confirmation feature on WhatsApp
The screenshot shows that users now have two options when sharing status updates: All Contacts and Specific Contacts. The first option also allows them to exclude certain contacts from viewing status updates, without having to change settings individually. Features tracker speculates that the move could offer users more control over privacy around status updates.
Notably, the feature was reportedly available on WhatsApp for iOS and was introduced with app version 24.10.10.75 via the TestFlight beta program, the feature tracker claims.
New look for status updates
Also recently announced is the introduction of a new user interface look for the status update page. It is said to be launched with WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.12.20. A new and larger status update thumbnail has been introduced, replacing the existing smaller circular window, as per requirements.
It is speculated that users could see status updates from this thumbnail without having to open them.
