Instant messaging platform Whatsapp is one of the most widely used communication tools around the world. With billions of users, the Meta-owned platform continues to introduce new features regularly. A report from WaBetaInfo suggests that WhatsApp may be getting a long-awaited new feature.
The report says WhatsApp may soon allow users to hide their online status. A screenshot has been shared by WaBetaInfo which suggests the feature is in development.
How will the feature work?
Users will have the option to choose who they can share their last seen status with. WhatsApp will add two new options – “Everyone” and “Same as last seen”. The report explains how the feature will work. You can choose “My Contacts” for “Last Seen” and “Same as Last Seen” online. This will ensure that anyone who is not on your contact list cannot see if and when you are online.
The screenshot shared by WaBetaInfo is on WhatsApp beta on iOS. However, the feature is expected to come to WhatsApp for Android and the office too. The rollout date of the feature is not known at this time as the feature is not even available in the beta version of the app.
Last year, WhatsApp introduced a similar feature, but it was aimed at how users interact with businesses. In December 2021, WhatsApp revealed that it “makes it harder for people you don’t know and haven’t chatted with to see your last online presence on WhatsApp”. However, this was for anyone who had never messaged before. In case a user had a chat with someone, they could see when they were online.
–
