WhatsApp’s New Status Update: A Move Away From Text and Towards Visual Communication
Since turning eight in February, WhatsApp has made a significant shift with its status update feature. This change signals a move away from traditional text-based updates and towards a more visually driven platform, embracing the language of photos and short videos. Borrowing a page from the Snapchat playbook, the new ephemeral status update introduces a dedicated tab for sharing visual content and features a prominent camera button that encourages users to capture and share their moments. While this update offers a fresh and straightforward way to communicate, many may be unfamiliar with its functionality. Let’s delve into the exciting new world of WhatsApp Status updates.
What Happened to My Old Text WhatsApp Status?
The days of the often-ignored default "Hi there, I’m using WhatsApp" text status are over. While some users claim to still see the old text status, for most it has disappeared. If you’re still seeing it, a quick restart of the app may resolve the issue. Interestingly, the user backlash prompted WhatsApp to reintroduce the text status in March as a compromise.
How can I Set a Photo or Video as My WhatsApp Status?
There are two methods to create and share a WhatsApp status:
Method 1: Using the Status Option
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap Status.
- Tap My Status. If you have an existing status, tap the circle with a + sign on the top right.
- Take a photo by pressing the shutter button or hold for a video. Alternatively, you can select a photo or video from your camera roll at the bottom of the screen.
- Add a caption by tapping "Add a caption" and then tap the Send icon at the bottom right.
- You can view your status, check the number of views, or forward it by tapping the menu button on the right side. To see the names of the viewers, tap the eye icon.
- Remember that your status will disappear after 24 hours.
Method 2: Using the Camera Icon
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the camera icon on the top left.
- Take a photo or video, or select one from your camera roll.
- Add a caption if desired. Tap the green tick to confirm.
- Select "My status" to update your status or send it to a specific contact. Tap the Send icon at the bottom right.
- You can now access your status under the Status tab.
I Messed Up, How Do I Delete My WhatsApp Status?
Don’t fret over mistakes, deleting your status is a simple process:
- Open WhatsApp.
- Navigate to the Status tab and locate the status you wish to delete.
- Tap the eye icon indicating the number of views.
- This will display a list of viewers.
- Tap the trash icon and select "Delete" to confirm.
Currently, there is no option to delete multiple statuses at once, so choose carefully!
How Do I Edit Privacy Settings of WhatsApp Status?
You have control over who sees your status updates:
- Open WhatsApp.
- Go to Status and tap the three dots menu icon on the top right, then select "Status privacy".
- Alternatively, tap the menu button on the main chat screen and open Settings > Account > Privacy > Status.
- Choose from the following options:
- My contacts: All your contacts will see your updates.
- My contacts except…: You can select specific contacts who will not see your updates.
- Only share with…: You can choose specific contacts who will see your updates.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s new Status update is a game-changer, pushing the app towards a more visual and engaging communication experience. By embracing the power of photos and videos, WhatsApp encourages users to share their stories in a more captivating way. While the old text status holds a sentimental place for some, the new features usher in a fresh wave of possibilities, enabling us to connect with our contacts in a more interactive and visual manner. This move towards visual communication is a clear indication of how WhatsApp is adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of digital interaction.
