WhatsApp is working on a new feature that could make sharing status updates feel a lot more personal and a lot less stressful.
According to a report by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is developing a “Close Friends” option for status updates. The idea is simple. Instead of sharing everything with all your contacts or constantly changing privacy settings, you will be able to choose a small group of people who get to see certain updates.
If you have ever hesitated before posting a photo or a thought because you did not want everyone to see it, this feature is clearly meant for you.
So how will it work?
The Close Friends option was spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.5.13. Once it rolls out, users will be able to create a list of contacts they consider close friends. When posting a status, you can choose to share it only with this group.
WhatsApp seems to be keeping things flexible. You will be able to manage your Close Friends list either from the status privacy settings or directly while posting a status update. This means fewer taps and less digging through menus just to control who sees your post.
Another important detail is that the list is not fixed. You can add or remove people whenever you want, and the changes will apply to future status updates. However, there is one limitation to keep in mind. If someone has already seen a status shared with your Close Friends list, removing them later will not undo that view. Once it is seen, it is seen.
To avoid confusion, WhatsApp is also expected to visually mark these updates. People on your Close Friends list may see a different coloured ring around your profile photo, letting them know the status was shared with a limited audience and not everyone.
Interestingly, this is not the only privacy related change in the works. WhatsApp is also testing custom contact lists for status updates. This could let users create multiple groups with custom names and even emojis. Think family, work friends, gym buddies, or any category you like.
Right now, the Close Friends feature is still under development and not available to everyone. There is no official word on when it will roll out widely. But if it does arrive as expected, it could make WhatsApp Status feel less like a broadcast and more like a private conversation.
For many users, that alone could make hitting the post button feel a lot easier.
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