WhatsApp is rolling out a new status update system inspired by Instagram Notes, letting users share quick, ephemeral text updates right from the About section. This tweak might sound small, just “another update,” but it’s an oddly lively change, and one that’s already sparking a bit of playful energy in group chats across India.
What the Feature Does
This new feature lets users post short, text-only updates in the About section, visible at the top of individual chats and on profile pages, much more in-your-face than the old About line you’d set and forget. These little notes work like a digital sticky note: “On a train, no signal!” or “Busy until 5 pm, ping later?” Sometimes they’re surprisingly honest (“Mentally on vacation”) or just a classic eye roll (“Meetings. All. Day.”).
The real kicker: These About updates now expire by default after 24 hours, mimicking Instagram Notes’ vibe. You’re never permanently stuck with an awkward in-joke or typo, and there’s just enough FOMO to get people checking in a little more often. Friends see these Abouts above your chat window, and one tap starts a reply suddenly, it’s way easier to turn “Stuck in Chennai rain” into a full story or complaint-fest with friends. On X, WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) introduced an update for its "About" feature, allowing users to share what they're up to, a thought, or a mood. Friends can easily respond, making it a more interactive way to stay connected.
How to Set a WhatsApp About Update?
It’s genuinely easy to use, even for those who tap through their settings blindly half the time. A quick breakdown (because in the real world, nobody actually reads app manuals):
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Open WhatsApp > Settings > Profile Picture > Set About
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Type a short update (you get about 50 characters)
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Adjust visibility—let all contacts see, or just a select few
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Pick how long it’ll show: 1 hour, 8 hours, 24 hours, up to a week
There’s no video, music, or photo integration (at least right now). Just pure text and emojis. Frankly, it’s kind of refreshing in a world where every app seems to want your entire life story.
What’s New with WhatsApp?
The About section is no longer that dusty static bio where people left ancient status messages (“Available,” “Can’t talk, WhatsApp only”). It’s genuinely interactive now. These micro-updates not only vanish, they’re pushed front-and-center in the app, nudging users to share little details, signal mood, or invite replies with barely any effort. You can even start a conversation by tapping someone’s About in a chat, making it a lightweight way to reconnect after weeks of ghosting.
Other small but useful improvements:
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Custom timer for how long your About will be seen
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It’s much easier to control privacy—updates can be public, restricted, or even fully silent
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More space for casual expression, but without turning WhatsApp into another “feed” that gobbles up productivity
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For now, only text and emojis—no memes or autoplay drama
It’s a fun throwback for longtime WhatsApp users who remember the app in its early minimalist days. Now, with Instagram-style flair, there’s fresh space for sly humor, quick mood changes, or the blunt “On deadline, please no calls” without flooding your main Status or group chats. If only this had launched back when “Available” and “Hey there! I am using WhatsApp” were the peak of digital self-expression.
This update is rolling out to everyone, so keep an eye out. Sometimes the most charming social features are the ones you barely notice until a friend’s oddball About update makes you grin, or prompts “You okay?” when you actually need it most.
Disclaimer
The information shared here is for general awareness about WhatsApp’s new status update feature, based on recent tech news and official blog posts. Feature availability and functions may differ by device or region. Always refer to WhatsApp’s official updates to ensure you have the latest, most accurate details.
