WhatsApp to show status updates in chats
15 Mar 2026

WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will display status updates at the top of the Chats tab.

The upcoming update was spotted in the latest beta version for Android.

The move is aimed at giving users a quick preview of their contacts' status updates without having to navigate away from their current chat list.

Current method of viewing
User convenience

Currently, users can view status updates by tapping on a profile icon and scrolling through the entire chat list.

However, with the new feature under development, they will be able to see these updates directly in the top app bar.

The change is aimed at making it easier for users to get a quick glance at the latest status updates without leaving the Chats tab.

New gesture for accessing all status updates
User interface

The new feature will also come with a gesture to access all status updates.

By scrolling down, users will reveal a horizontal row of all status updates just above the chat list.

This way, they can view status updates from their contacts (including those from archived chats or those without an active chat) without having to leave the Chats tab.

Status updates from muted contacts will be hidden
User control

The new feature will also give users control over what status updates they want to see.

Status updates from muted contacts won't be directly shown in the new interface. Instead, they will be accessible through a separate entry point called "Hidden."

This way, users can view all status updates from muted contacts without them appearing in the main status interface.

Status updates will only be visible when users scroll down
Visibility control

The new feature is designed to make status updates more accessible without leaving the Chats tab.

However, it's worth noting that they won't appear unless users scroll down.

Instead, status updates will only be visible above the search bar when users choose to scroll down.

This way, WhatsApp can keep the main status experience focused on unmuted contacts while giving users control over their viewing preferences.

Feature still in testing phase
Future availability

It's important to note that WhatsApp is still testing this feature in its early development phase. There is no guarantee that the app will continue with its development or release it to users.

The decision about releasing the feature will depend on multiple tests and evaluations.

Even if fully developed, some features may not be made available to the public if they don't meet certain expectations during testing phases.