WhatsApp Close Friends Feature for Status Privacy
The WhatsApp close friends feature may soon give users stronger control over status privacy, as Meta tests new options that allow updates to be shared with selected contact lists instead of all contacts.
Custom Lists for Status Updates
The reported WhatsApp close friends feature lets users organise contacts into named lists. Each list can include a distinct emoji to help users identify the audience quickly.
Users can select a specific list while posting a status. This method offers more flexibility than the current options, such as sharing with all contacts or excluding selected people.
The feature closely resembles Instagram’s Close Friends option, which limits story visibility to chosen followers.
Feature Found in Android Beta
Developers reportedly spotted the WhatsApp close friends feature in Android beta version 2.26.5.11. The feature remains under development and is not yet available to all beta users.
WhatsApp has not shared an official release date. The company usually tests features for several weeks or months before rolling them out globally.
Improved Privacy and User Control
WhatsApp continues to add tools that give users greater control over their content. The new feature could help users share personal updates with specific groups, such as family, colleagues, or close friends.
The update may also reduce accidental oversharing and improve user confidence in status privacy.
Why This Matters
The WhatsApp close friends feature could change how users interact with status updates. It gives people more precise control over their audience and aligns WhatsApp with popular privacy tools already available on other Meta platforms.
What Happens Next
WhatsApp is expected to continue testing the feature in upcoming beta versions. If testing proves successful, Meta may introduce the feature to all users in a future update.
FAQs
What is the WhatsApp close friends feature?
It is a reported feature that allows users to share status updates with selected contact lists instead of all contacts.
Is the WhatsApp close friends feature available now?
No. The feature is currently under development and has only been spotted in an Android beta version.
How does it work?
Users can create named contact lists and choose one while posting a status update.
Is this similar to Instagram Close Friends?
Yes. The feature works in a similar way by limiting visibility to selected contacts.
When will WhatsApp release this feature?
WhatsApp has not announced a release date yet.