WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.18.5: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.26.18.5.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a new widget that shows who shared status updates, and it will be available in the future!
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Widget for status updates |
| Status: | Under development |
| Availability info: | This feature is currently in development, and it is not available for beta testing. In the meantime, you can read this article for a sneak peek. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp to redesign and enhance the interface for chat lists! |
WhatsApp adds a widget for status updates on iOS
In the post about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.22.10.74 update, we announced a widget to access status updates. The widget lets users quickly view the latest status updates directly from the Home Screen. Unlike the previous status widget, the new widget leverages Apple's latest technologies for deeper system integration. WhatsApp also introduced two different widget sizes: a compact version focused on a single contact's status update, and a larger version to display updates from up to three contacts at once. In addition, the new widget prioritizes updates shared by frequently contacted people, making the experience more personalized and relevant.
WhatsApp to expand widget for status updates to Android
WhatsApp initially introduced the widget exclusively on iOS, and it offers a more convenient way to keep up with status updates directly from the Home Screen. This feature especially benefits iOS users who frequently use status updates, since they could quickly check new content without opening WhatsApp. However, WhatsApp is now committed to bringing the same level of convenience to Android users with a similar widget experience. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.18.5 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a new widget that shows who shared status updates.
Users check status updates through the Updates and Chats tabs
The attached image shows a new feature that will allow users to add a dedicated widget for status updates to their Home Screen. This feature is currently under development and it is set for release in a future update. However, it already gives us an idea of how useful it may be for users who frequently interact with status updates. At the moment, users can view status updates by opening the Updates tab, where users can see all recent statuses in a dedicated section. In some cases, status updates may also appear directly within the Chats tab through profile rings. However, both methods require users to open WhatsApp before they can check new status updates. This makes the process less immediate compared to a dedicated Home Screen widget.
WhatsApp to test a new Home Screen widget to view recent status updates
In a future update, WhatsApp will address this issue by introducing a new widget. The upcoming widget is very similar to the one previously released on iOS. Once added to the Home Screen like any other widget, it will allow users to quickly see who has recently shared a status update without opening WhatsApp. The widget is expected to display a limited number of contacts, likely up to three at a time, who have posted a new status. The widget will make status updates more accessible and easier to check at a glance.
WhatsApp will let users create status updates directly from the Home Screen widget
The widget will also include a shortcut to create new status updates directly from the Home Screen. Instead of opening the Updates tab and selecting the option to post a status update from there, users will be able to access the feature instantly through the widget. Once users tap this shortcut, WhatsApp will immediately open the interface to create a new status update. This should make the process faster, especially for users who frequently share status updates.
WhatsApp will use its ranking system to view the most relevant status updates in the widget
The contacts shown within the widget will be selected using the same ranking system already implemented for status updates within the app. This system prioritizes people users interact with the most. The algorithm considers frequently contacted and recently messaged chats, as well as pinned conversations. WhatsApp may also give priority to status updates that are close to expiring. As a result, the widget is expected to display the most relevant status updates rather than showing contacts in chronological order. Since the ranking system operates locally on the device, the entire process also remains privacy-friendly.
WhatsApp Widget for status updates is under development
The widget that shows who shared status updates is currently under development, and it is planned for release in a future update. At the moment, WhatsApp is refining how the widget can show contacts who shared a status update. Once testing is complete, this feature will be gradually introduced to users, making it easier to catch up with the latest status activity directly from the Home Screen.
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