Earlier last month, WhatsApp was seen experimenting with a feature that suggested users contacts to chat with. The feature, aimed to speed up the process of starting new conversations on the app, was meant to increase overall engagement. In another update, WhatsApp added more functionality to this feature by adding details about who is online.
However, while the platform tested the feature on its Android beta version, the latest iOS beta version shows that the feature could also be available for iPhones.
WhatsApp Activity Indicator Spotted On Beta For iOS
WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.9.10.71 (iOS) contains the feature, that allows users to see a list of contacts who were online recently. According to a report by WABetaInfo, some beta users now have access to the feature. Located within the contacts list, it shows users the people who were online in the last few minutes. “This feature provides users with a snapshot of recent online activity rather than a comprehensive list of all currently online contacts.”
This tells us that the feature isn’t for providing the online status of all the contacts. Instead, it only gives users an idea about the general activity of others, encouraging them to text those who have been active on the app. The activity details appear while starting a new chat on the app, “helping users determine who might be available for immediate interaction.”
Those Who’ve Disabled Their Online Status And Last Seen Don’t Need To Worry
Moreover, the feature will help users connect with recently active contacts, as they are more likely to respond to DMs than those who haven’t been active. For those concerned about privacy, the feature won’t show activity status for users who’ve disabled their last seen and online status.
Given that WhatsApp is testing the feature on both Android and iOS operating systems, there’s a good chance it will be released as a future update. It is important to mention that we’ve seen such a feature on the popular photo and video-sharing platform Snapchat.
WhatsApp Is Also Developing A Quick Reaction Button
Elsewhere, the instant messaging platform is also working on adding a quick reaction button for status updates. Like Instagram, where users can like each others’ Stories, WhatsApp will add a like button for status updates. The reactions will be visible in the status tab; WhatsApp won’t include them in one-to-one conversations.
Another new feature WhatsApp rolled out recently (on iOS) is the ability to forward Channel updates to individual chats and groups. The feature builds on the existing capabilities to forward channel updates with a new button next to the reaction view, saving time.
You can follow Smartprix on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Google News. Visit smartprix.com for the most recent tech and auto news, reviews, and guides.
