Redesigned Status Updates Tray And Favorite Contacts: New WhatsApp Features Under Development

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The Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp is working on several new features for Android, iOS, and web clients. WhatsApp updates tracker WABetaInfo spotted these features. While the platform is working on favorite contacts and secret code features for its web client, the mobile client could soon get a revamped status updates tray. 

Favorite Contacts And Secret Code For WhatsApp Web

WhatsApp Favorites Tab

Per WABetaInfo, the messaging app is working on a feature to allow users to filter chats by showing their favorite contacts. This will let users reach them easily without searching for the name or scrolling through the inbox. Users will also be able to choose their favorite contacts to mark their frequently contacted users. The Favorites tab will appear along with the other filters, such as AllUnread, And Labels

WhatsApp Secret Code for Web

Another feature that could come to WhatsApp’s web client is Secret Code. This will extend the locked chats to the web client, a previously available feature to mobile users. The feature will ask users to enter the secret code they’ve set to access the locked chats, ensuring their private chats aren’t accessed by intruders, especially in shared working environments where WhatsApp is used for daily communication.

New Status Updates Tray Could Arrive Soon For WhatsApp’s Mobile Users

New status updates feature for WhatsApp for mobile

WABetaInfo mentions in one of its reports that the messaging platform is working on a “fresh interface for the status updates tray.” As seen in the image, the new status updates tray is at the top of the updates page, making it easy to access. Further, status updates by friends and family members are visible as soon as users enter the updates tab.  

Further, the updates status updates section will also allow users to get a peak at the first uploaded status by a user by previewing it. We are guessing that users would have to press and hold on to a status card, but that is something we’re yet to find out. “The fresh interface for the status updates tray is under development, and it will be available in a future update of the app,” says the tracker.

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Shikhar MehrotraShikhar Mehrotra
Shikhar Mehrotra is a seasoned technology writer and reviewer with over five years of experience covering consumer tech across India and global markets. At Smartprix, he has authored more than 1,700 articles, including news stories, features, comparisons, and product reviews spanning automobiles, smartphones, chipsets, wearables, laptops, home appliances, and operating systems. Shikhar has reviewed flagship devices such as the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25+, and Sennheiser HD 505 Open-Ear headphones. He also contributes regularly to Smartprix’s growing automotive section.

With a deep understanding of both iOS and Android ecosystems, Shikhar specializes in daily tech news, how-to explainers, product comparisons, and in-depth reviews. His DSLR photography in product reviews is recognized as among the best on the team.

Before joining Smartprix, Shikhar wrote for leading publications including Forbes Advisor India, Republic World, and ScreenRant. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Lucknow.

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