WhatsApp is set to introduce a significant update this week, reintroducing a familiar feature with a new twist. Known as About, this feature harks back to an earlier version that was present in the initial stages of the chat app’s existence.
The intention behind the revival of About, as per WhatsApp, is to offer users a convenient and straightforward method to share current updates about their lives. The company, owned by Meta, stated, “Today we’re reintroducing and enhancing About, making it more visible, timely, and user-friendly.”
So, what exactly does this revamped About feature entail and when can users expect it to appear on their devices? Essentially, the new About feature is meant for those instances when users wish to provide updates about their lives. By using a brief statement and an emoji, users can inform others why they might be unavailable for a chat or what they are interested in discussing.
The About status will be prominently displayed at the top of the chat window, ensuring easy visibility for others. WhatsApp elaborated, “About will now be more prominently featured at the top of individual chats and on your profile.”
Moreover, users can directly respond to someone’s About by tapping on it within a chat. The About status will automatically expire after a day, but users have the option to make it disappear sooner or last longer by adjusting the timer in the Settings section.
For those concerned about privacy, WhatsApp offers control over who can view their About status. Users can customize visibility settings to restrict it to only their contacts or make it accessible to a wider audience.
WhatsApp has announced that the updated About feature will be gradually rolled out to all mobile users starting this week.
