WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to share Status updates exclusively with their “Close Friends”, much like Instagram’s Stories feature. The upcoming option was spotted in the beta version of WhatsApp for iOS (v25.23.10.80) by feature tracker WABetaInfo.
What Is the WhatsApp Close Friends Status Feature?
Currently, WhatsApp lets users post Status updates that are visible to:
- All contacts by default
- Selected contacts (whitelisted)
- Hidden from specific contacts (blacklisted)
With the new feature, users will be able to create a dedicated Close Friends list and share certain Status updates only with people on that list. This makes it easier to post more personal or private updates without broadcasting them to everyone.
Visual Indicators for Close Friends Status
Similar to Instagram’s green ring for Close Friends Stories, WhatsApp is expected to include a visual cue that helps distinguish these updates. This will ensure that users can easily identify which updates are shared privately with their inner circle.
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Privacy and Control
According to reports, managing the Close Friends list will remain discreet. When someone is added or removed, WhatsApp will not send any notifications to the contacts involved. Only future Status posts will reflect the updated list, while older ones will not be affected.
Why It Matters
The Close Friends feature will give WhatsApp users more flexibility in sharing updates, especially when they want to keep certain content within a smaller circle. Since Status updates disappear after 24 hours, the feature adds a layer of personalization and privacy without complicating the existing functionality.
WhatsApp’s Recent Updates
The development follows closely after WhatsApp began rolling out an AI-powered text rewriting tool for iOS users. The tool helps refine text with different tones and improved readability, further enhancing the platform’s usability.
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