WhatsApp beta is testing status updates in the Chats tab
With the latest version available on TestFlight, WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings status updates to the top of the chat list. This feature will make it easier for users to catch up on recent status updates without opening the Updates tab.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Status updates at the top of the Chats tab |
| Status: | Under development |
| Availability info: | This feature is currently in development and not yet available for beta testing. In the meantime, you can read this article for a sneak peek. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to suggest new group members! |
WhatsApp will make it simpler to view status updates in the chat list
In the post about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.11.2 update, we announced a feature that brings status updates to the top of the chat list. This feature will offer easier access to the recent updates shared by contacts. So users will be able to quickly preview status updates directly from the Chats tab without scrolling through the chat list or switching to the Updates tab. They won't be intrusive, as status updates only appear when the user pulls down the interface.
The feature is under development on Android and iOS
Note that this feature is still under development on the Android app. WhatsApp is currently refining the experience to make it more intuitive for users how to reveal status updates in the tray. In the meantime, WhatsApp is working to bring the same update to the iOS app. The update will align the layout and behavior across both platforms. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.14.10.70 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings status updates to the top of the Chats tab.
WhatsApp is working on bringing status updates to the chat list on iOS
As you can see from the attached image, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of a feature that places status updates at the top of the Chats tab. This update is scheduled for release in the future. However, it already promises to make it faster and more convenient for users to catch up on status updates shared by their contacts. Currently, users need to open the Updates tab to view status updates. Alternatively, they can scroll through the chat list to see which contacts have shared a status update.
A new way to access status updates in the Chats tab
In a future update, WhatsApp will introduce a third way to access status updates. The new feature will bring status updates to the top of the Chats tab. Specifically, WhatsApp plans to place status update within the navigation bar. The center of the navigation bar will show contacts the user interacts with most who have recently shared a status update. This means that users will have a new way to quickly get a glance at who has posted a status without leaving the Chats tab.
Scrolling the interface to quickly view and share status updates
Instead of scrolling through the chat list, users can directly scroll down the interface. This action will let users see a dedicated row with all status updates shared by their contacts. Here, they will also be able to quickly share a status update. This means that users will also be able to create a status update directly in the Chats tab. As a result, users will be able to catch up on what their contacts share in a faster way.
Status updates are ranked, and access to hidden updates is available
The tray in the navigation bar is designed to work in the same way as the one available in the Updates tab. It shows status updates ranked based on contact relevance, and the priority will be placed on the people users interact with most. So the most important updates will appear first in the list. This will ensure quicker access to the most relevant updates. At the end of the tray, users can find an entry point to view hidden status updates. These are status updates shared by those that have been muted by the user.
Status updates will be visible at the top of the Chats tab in the future
The feature that brings status updates to the top of the Chats tab is under development, and it is expected to be released in a future update. WhatsApp is currently refining how the app displays status updates in the navigation bar. Once testing is complete, WhatsApp will roll out this feature to select beta testers, making it simpler for users to discover status updates from the Chats tab.
Stay Connected with WABetaInfo
Follow WABetaInfo on X to stay informed 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.