WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.9.23: what's new?
WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.24.9.23.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a quick reaction feature for status updates, and it will be available in a future update!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Quick status reaction |
| Status? | Under development |
| Availability? | WhatsApp is working on bringing a feature to quickly react to status updates to a future update of the app. |
| I've installed this update but I don't have this feature. Why? | This feature is under development so it's not ready for beta testers, but it is possible to discover a preview in this article. |
| Special thanks: | Sc and Adwaith Varma, for collaborating, testing, and reporting. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.9.22: what’s new? WhatsApp is working on a file sharing feature with people nearby! |
WhatsApp develops quick reactions to boost engagement with status updates
In the post about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.6.19 update, we announced a new feature that sends mention notifications for status updates. This functionality will allow users to send a notification whenever they mention a contact in their updates. As a result, the notification would help users keep up with the update.
WhatsApp is exploring other features to help users improve the engagement with status updates. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.9.23 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a quick reaction feature for status updates.
WhatsApp to keep status reactions separate from chats for cleaner conversations
As you can see in the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is experimenting with a feature that lets users react to status updates. With this feature, users will be able to quickly add a reaction to status updates. It's important to note that these reactions will appear on the status screen. They won't be visible within the conversation. When users react to status updates using the traditional reaction feature, the emoji is shared in the conversation. Instead, the new reaction feature will keep conversations clutter-free, making it easier for users to engage with status updates.
WhatsApp secures status reactions with end-to-end encryption
The quick reaction feature for status updates will be compatible with end-to-end encryption. This means that reacting to status updates will be completely secure and private. This also ensures that WhatsApp cannot access or view the reaction. With end-to-end encrypted reactions, only the intended recipient will be able to see it. In addition, the status screen will display all reaction in the same place. By centralizing reactions to status updates in one screen, users will be able to quickly review who liked their content without opening their conversations.
The new feature to react to status updates is under development, and it will be available in a future update of the app. We will publish another article once we have more information to share.
Connect with WABetaInfo
Follow WABetaInfo on X to learn more about new features and updates. We love hearing your feedback, so please let us know what you think! You can also visit our About page to explore all our services and keep up with the latest announcements.