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Current WhatsApp update deletes the ‘Status’ function – what does it replace and why did the change happen to the popular messaging service.
FRANKFURT – Using the status function in WhatsApp Messenger, you could previously, for example, give your contacts information about their current availability: “At school”, “On a date” or “Sleeping”, for example, have been popular favorites for a while long . However, the space was often filled with inspirational quotes, slogans, or emojis. If you don’t fill in the field yourself, WhatsApp’s default text is “Hello!” I’m using WhatsApp!” (German: “Hello! I’m using WhatsApp!”).
According to the latest update from WhatsApp, the Status area will no longer be available. The reason for this is the introduction of a new feature called “Channels” in the messaging service. In this – similar to competing messaging service Telegram – celebrities, organizations, clubs and companies should be able to share news via chat without opening the channel for messages from the recipient.
The Status tab in WhatsApp has been deleted – the functionality is being expanded
Recipients should only be able to respond to messages in a WhatsApp channel using emoji reactions — which is also similar to a feature that Telegram has been offering for some time. This will also review the Status tab. This disappears from the main menu and is replaced by a tab called “Current” (in the English version: “Updates”).
In this menu, WhatsApp users can now select what they want to share with their contacts. For example, you can view shared channels, find new channels, and insert photos or videos. In addition, status reports should continue to be submitted here. A contact’s status also remains available through their profile picture in the chat list.
WhatsApp update is now available worldwide: Most frequently asked questions about the changes
Previously, the Channels feature was only available in certain countries, including Egypt, Chile, Malaysia, Morocco, Ukraine, Kenya, Peru, Singapore, and Colombia. However, in mid-September, WhatsApp started rolling out this feature globally. As reported by the official WhatsApp Twitter account (“X”), it should now be available globally.
To prevent confusion among WhatsApp users, the company has publicly answered the most frequently asked questions about the update:
- How do I find WhatsApp channels? – Channels can be searched in the “Current” tab.
- Why don’t I see the job? – The option will be visible only after installing the latest WhatsApp update
- Can my contacts see the channels I’m subscribed to? – No, unless you are the channel manager
There is another innovation that could cause dissatisfaction among users in the future: rumors have recently spread that WhatsApp will be able to display ads in the future. These have now been further fueled by insiders. However, what will please many users is that there is a new way to protect themselves from prying eyes on their chat messages. The messaging service is currently testing a function aimed at enhancing the “message confidentiality” of messages. (unavailable)
