WhatsApp Status to Instagram-like close friends feature: Here’s wha it is

WhatsApp may soon roll out a new feature for its Status updates. As reported by WABetaInfo, the popular instant messaging app is working on a feature that will allow users to share status updates with close friends. The update, currently in development for iOS beta version 25.23.10.80, mirrors Instagram’s popular Close Friends tool and is expected to launch in a future release.WhatsApp Status—used by over 1.5 billion people daily—currently allows users to share updates with all contacts, exclude specific ones, or select individuals manually. The new feature introduces a dedicated Close Friends list within the privacy settings, streamlining the process and making it easier to share more personal content with a select group.When posting a Status, users will be able to choose between their full contact list or their curated Close Friends. These updates will be visually marked with a distinct colour ring, helping viewers instantly recognise that the content is exclusive.Importantly, contacts won’t be notified when they’re added or removed from the Close Friends list, preserving discretion and avoiding awkward social dynamics. Updates shared with Close Friends will still disappear after 24 hours and remain protected by end-to-end encryption, ensuring privacy and security.“Status updates shared with close friends will remain temporary, disappearing after 24 hours, and are always protected with end-to-end encryption. This ensures that only the chosen recipients can view the update, while neither Meta nor WhatsApp has access to its content. With the same level of protection applied to status updates shared with the default audience, users can feel confident that their personal moments remain fully private and secure,” the report adds.