The visibility of status updates will depend on users’ privacy settings, according to the Meta-owned messaging platform.
Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that allows users to view status updates from unsaved phone numbers, making it easier to stay updated on recent interactions.
According to WABetaInfo, the feature is currently available to select beta testers and is expected to roll out to more users in the coming days.
The feature provides a new way for users to stay connected with people they have recently interacted with.
Status updates may now be visible to phone numbers involved in recent chats or calls. A tilde (~) appearing before a contact name and phone number in the status interface indicates that the update is being shared with a recent interaction from an unsaved contact.
It is worth noting that WhatsApp has quietly rolled out this feature without making an official announcement within the app.
When users receive a status update from an unknown number, WhatsApp may show an introductory screen explaining how the feature works.
Users can receive status updates from unsaved contacts if they are stored in their address book, provided there has been a recent message or call between both users.
Despite this change, the introductory notice clarifies that the privacy of status updates remains unchanged. Users still have full control over who can view their status at any time.
If a user receives a status update from someone not saved in their contacts, it indicates that the other person has their number saved.
Overall, status visibility continues to depend on privacy settings as well as recent interactions such as messages or calls between users.
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