- WhatsApp to bring timed status updates in the ‘About’ section for real-time sharing
- Users can set custom duration for status that auto-expires like disappearing messages
- Only visible to selected contacts based on individual WhatsApp privacy settings
As the digital world keeps evolving, WhatsApp continues to refine how we connect and communicate. The Meta-owned platform is currently testing a unique update that makes its status feature more dynamic and useful. Now, instead of showing outdated text in the ‘About’ section, users may soon get the option to post real-time status updates with a timer.
This upcoming feature is designed to bring more relevance to the WhatsApp profile ‘About’ section, making it not just a static bio but a flexible indicator of current mood, activity, or availability. Spotted by WABetaInfo in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.21.17, this feature allows users to control how long their status message is visible—giving it a temporary nature similar to Stories or disappearing messages.
The idea is simple but effective. Users can either write a fresh status or pick from a preset list, and then choose how long it stays active using the new “Duration” setting. Once the time runs out, WhatsApp will automatically remove the status, helping avoid outdated or irrelevant updates.
WhatsApp Status Time
This enhancement is a big step forward in making profile statuses more meaningful. Instead of leaving old messages in the ‘About’ section indefinitely, users can now add timely, short-lived updates. Whether it’s “In a meeting,” “On vacation,” or “Back in 1 hour,” users have more flexibility in how they present themselves to their contacts.
More than just the About tab, these time-sensitive statuses will also appear in the conversation window—right below the contact’s name. This ensures better visibility and context when chatting. Like other WhatsApp features, visibility of these updates will follow the user’s privacy preferences, meaning only selected contacts will be able to view them.
Another helpful addition is the option to remove the update manually before the time ends. This gives users complete control over what they want to share and for how long. It echoes WhatsApp’s existing privacy-first approach, ensuring that users always have the final say over their content.
This feature also draws some inspiration from professional tools like Slack, where time-bound statuses help teammates know each other’s availability. However, WhatsApp’s goal is broader—making real-time sharing accessible not just for work, but for everyday moments too.
As of now, the feature is under development and hasn’t been rolled out to beta testers yet. But given WhatsApp’s usual development cycle, it’s expected to reach beta users soon before launching globally.
This update also shows how WhatsApp is expanding the usefulness of its platform without making things overly complicated. While voice notes, calls, and messages remain its core, adding thoughtful enhancements like disappearing About statuses makes the app more interactive.
WhatsApp is taking another smart step to make everyday communication more personal, time-aware, and relevant. By introducing time-sensitive About updates, it not only boosts usability but also aligns with how users want to present themselves in a constantly changing digital environment.
FAQ
What is the new time-sensitive status feature on WhatsApp?
It allows users to set an expiry time for their About section status messages.
Can I customise how long my WhatsApp About status stays visible?
Yes, you can choose a preset time or set a custom duration for your status.
Will the time-sensitive status show up in chats?
Yes, it will be visible under the contact’s name in the chat header.
Who can see my time-based WhatsApp About status?
Only those contacts who are allowed as per your privacy settings.
Is this feature available to everyone right now?
No, it’s still in development and not yet available to beta testers.
