WhatsApp is set to introduce a significant update this week, reintroducing a feature called About with a new approach. This feature, reminiscent of an earlier version from the app’s inception, is being brought back to offer users a convenient way to share updates about their lives quickly and easily.
According to WhatsApp, the revamped About feature is intended to provide users with a simple and visible platform to communicate what’s happening in their lives. The Meta-owned company stated, “Today we’re reintroducing and improving About, making it more visible, timely, and easier to use.”
So, what can users expect from the new About feature and when will it be available on their devices? Essentially, this feature allows users to post brief updates about their current status or activities, accompanied by an emoji, to inform others why they may not be available to chat or what they wish to discuss.
Your About status will now be prominently displayed at the top of your chat window for easy visibility by others. WhatsApp explained, “About will now be easier to see at the top of 1-1 chats and on your profile.”
Furthermore, users can respond directly to someone’s About by tapping on it within a chat. The About status will automatically expire after one day, but users have the option to customize its duration by accessing Settings and selecting ‘Set About.’
For those concerned about privacy, WhatsApp offers control over who can view your About status. Users can adjust settings to limit visibility to their contacts only or extend it to a broader audience.
The updated About feature is gradually being rolled out to all mobile users starting this week.