WhatsApp is currently developing an exciting new feature for its Android app, designed to give users unprecedented control over their status updates. A recent report from a reliable feature tracker indicates that the Meta-owned messaging platform will soon introduce an option allowing the original creator to meticulously choose who can reshare their updates. Importantly, WhatsApp assures users that when a status is reshared, the identity of the original author will remain private.
Enhanced Control Over Status Sharing
The discovery of this new status resharing control feature was made by the vigilant team at WABetaInfo within WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.25.27.5. This update is considered a compatible stepping stone towards broader implementation. It appears that Meta Platforms is actively working to integrate this functionality into upcoming versions of the popular messaging application.
Screenshot: WhatsApp status update resharing option (Image Credit: WABetaInfo)
As illustrated in a screenshot provided by the feature tracker, the WhatsApp Beta for Android app will feature a new Allow Sharing option directly alongside the existing status update viewing options. When activated, this toggle will permit others who can see your status updates to also reshare them.
It’s important to note that this functionality will be disabled by default, requiring users to manually activate it for each status update they wish to allow resharing for.
Furthermore, users will retain granular control over who can interact with their status updates. WABetaInfo clarifies that individuals can restrict viewing options, either by excluding specific contacts or by sharing updates with only a select group. Consequently, resharing will only be possible for those recipients who fall within the user’s chosen privacy settings.
To maintain transparency and prevent confusion, reshared content will reportedly display a distinct label at the top of the screen. Original authors will receive notifications when their status updates are reshared, while recipients will not have access to the personal details of the initial poster.
WABetaInfo confirms that this innovative status resharing control feature is still under active development. Currently, it’s exclusively accessible to a limited number of beta testers participating in the Google Play Beta program. There’s an expectation that this feature will be gradually rolled out for broader testing in the coming weeks.