WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Meta, is testing a new feature that will allow users to share their status updates on the web interface. This feature is part of a broader effort to improve the user experience and functionality of WhatsApp across different devices and platforms.
WhatsApp Testing Status Update Sharing on Web UI
Status updates are short messages or media that users can post on WhatsApp to share with their contacts. They disappear after 24 hours and can be customized with emojis, stickers, text, and filters. Currently, users can only create and view status updates on their mobile devices, but WhatsApp is working on changing that.
According to a report by WABetaInfo, a website that tracks WhatsApp updates, the messaging app is testing the ability to share status updates on the web UI. This means that users will be able to create and view status updates on their computers or laptops, without having to use their phones. This will make it easier and more convenient for users to share their thoughts, feelings, and activities with their friends and family.
The report also states that WhatsApp is testing the linked companion devices feature, which will enable users to use WhatsApp on multiple devices, such as tablets and smartwatches, without requiring an active internet connection on their phones. This will allow users to send and receive messages and calls on any device that is linked to their WhatsApp account.
How to Access the Feature?
The status update sharing feature on the web UI is currently being tested with a specific beta version of WhatsApp for Android and iOS. Users who want to try this feature will need to enroll in the beta program and update their app to the latest version. They will also need to scan a QR code on the web UI to link their phone with their computer or laptop.
Once the feature is enabled, users will see a new tab on the web UI that shows the status updates of their contacts. They will also be able to create their own status updates by clicking on the camera icon or the text icon. They will have the same options to customize their status updates as they do on their mobile devices.
New Features Being Tested
The status update sharing feature on the web UI is not the only new feature that WhatsApp is testing. The messaging app is also working on several other features that will enhance its integration with other Meta platforms and services, such as Instagram and ONDC.
One of these features is the partnership between Meta and ONDC, the Open Network for Digital Commerce, which is an initiative by the Indian government to create a unified platform for e-commerce. WhatsApp is planning to leverage this partnership to empower small businesses and merchants in India, who use the app to communicate with their customers and sell their products. WhatsApp will enable these businesses to create their own digital storefronts on ONDC and allow users to browse and buy from them directly on WhatsApp.
Another feature that WhatsApp is testing is the integration with Instagram for sharing status updates. This feature will allow users to share their status updates on both WhatsApp and Instagram at the same time, with a single tap. Users will also be able to see the status updates of their Instagram contacts on WhatsApp, and vice versa. This will create a seamless and unified experience for users who use both apps to share their content.
Additionally, WhatsApp is testing a post preview feature for Instagram, which will let users see how their posts will look on Instagram before they share them. This feature will help users to optimize their posts for the best engagement and reach on Instagram. Users will also be able to edit their posts, add hashtags, and tag people before they share them.
Furthermore, WhatsApp is testing a direct sharing feature for status updates to Instagram. This feature will allow users to share their status updates to their Instagram stories, without having to download or save them first. This will make it faster and easier for users to cross-post their content on both apps.
Besides these features, WhatsApp is also testing some other features, such as voice and video call recording, disappearing mode, multi-device support, and more. These features are expected to roll out to the public in the coming months, as WhatsApp continues to improve its app and offer more value to its users.
