WhatsApp is introducing a new way for users to express themselves. The popular messaging app has officially launched its text-based coloured status feature, which was previously in beta testing. This update is now rolling out to all users on iOS, Android, and the web, allowing people to share creative text updates with custom fonts and background colours, much like the feature seen on Facebook and Instagram.
What is the New Coloured Status Feature?
This latest update brings a fresh dimension to the WhatsApp status. While users could previously only share photos and videos, they can now post text-only updates. This is a significant addition, especially after the company received feedback for removing the old text-based status last year.
The new feature is designed for simplicity and creativity. Users can type out their thoughts, choose a unique font style, and select a vibrant background colour to make their message stand out. Also, this new feature allows the user to share even links on the status, which was not possible with the old text-only “About” section.
In an official statement, WhatsApp explained the goal of the feature. It reads, “The new feature makes it easy to share creative text-based status updates. Now you never have to worry about getting the word out to all your family and friends.”
Personalize Your Updates with Fonts and Colours
The core appeal of the new text status is customization. It allows for a more personal touch when sharing updates. Whether you’re announcing a party, asking for recommendations, or just sharing a thought, you can now style it to match your mood.
This feature is straightforward to use. When creating a new status, you will see options to change the font and background colour, giving you a simple yet powerful tool to design your message. You can also add emojis to make your status more expressive and fun for your contacts to see.
Control Who Sees Your Status Updates
Privacy remains a key focus for WhatsApp. Alongside this new creative tool, the app ensures users have complete control over who can view their status updates. You don’t have to share your thoughts with every single person in your contact list if you don’t want to.
Users can control who can see your Status update directly from the privacy settings within WhatsApp. There are three specific options available to manage your audience:
- My contacts: Only people saved in your phone’s address book can see your status.
- Contacts except…: This lets you hide your status from specific people in your contact list.
- Only share with…: This option allows you to select a specific list of contacts who will be able to see your status.
These settings provide a great deal of flexibility, ensuring your personal updates are only seen by the intended audience.
Availability across iOS, Android, and Web
WhatsApp has ensured a wide rollout for this feature. It is not limited to just one platform. The company confirmed that the coloured text status is being launched simultaneously for all users, regardless of their device.
This includes the mobile apps for both iOS and Android. Furthermore, the feature is also available on WhatsApp Web, which recently received significant upgrades. This means you can both post and view these new creative statuses from your computer, making the experience consistent across all your devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a link to my WhatsApp text status?
Yes, the new text-based coloured status feature allows you to add clickable links directly in your status, making it easy to share websites or articles with your contacts.
Is the old text status feature gone forever?
No, after receiving user feedback earlier in the year, WhatsApp brought back the old, simple text status. It is now located under the ‘About’ section in your profile settings.
Are the new coloured statuses private?
Yes, you have full control over who sees your status. You can choose from three privacy options: ‘My contacts’, ‘Contacts except…’, and ‘Only share with…’ to manage your audience.
Is this feature available on WhatsApp Web?
Yes, the ability to create and view coloured text statuses is available on the WhatsApp Web client, along with the iOS and Android mobile applications.
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