Meta has been working to integrate its suite of apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram, aligning their features. Among these shared features are disappearing Stories or Status updates, a prominent aspect of WhatsApp. Now, an update is set to introduce a fresh method of responding to Statuses, drawing inspiration from Instagram.
WhatsApp is currently deploying a beta update for Android and iOS users. This update introduces a new reply bar for Status updates, resembling the elongated pill-shaped reply bar found in Instagram Stories.
The upcoming introduction of the new reply bar for responding to Statuses in WhatsApp signals a shift away from the current swipe-up gesture used for replies. This gesture currently triggers six emoji reactions, similar to those seen on Instagram. Consequently, there’s curiosity about how this interaction will evolve once the new reply bar is implemented.
It’s anticipated that WhatsApp might retain the swipe-up gesture specifically for reactions, mirroring the functionality seen on Instagram. However, the practicality and utility of this adjustment remain to be seen.
AzMo Tech’s Take
The upcoming implementation of the new reply bar for Status updates aligns WhatsApp’s UI more closely with Instagram’s interface, aiming for improved convenience. Currently, the swipe-up gesture can feel cumbersome when trying to reply to a Status, and the direct reply bar aims to eliminate this friction, enabling smoother communication flow within Status updates. You can preview the new reply bar in the screenshot (shared by WABetaInfo) below.
Furthermore, WhatsApp is experimenting with a feature that allows Channel owners to receive channel alerts. WhatsApp Channels were recently introduced as a means of easy information dissemination. To gain a better understanding, you can explore WhatsApp Channels and learn how to join them.
The timeline for the general release of the aforementioned WhatsApp updates remains uncertain. However, for current available features, the Meta-owned messaging platform has rolled out several new functionalities specifically for iOS users. These include the option to send View Once voice messages, the capability to monitor connection health during calls, and the introduction of pinned messages in group chats. Have you downloaded the new WhatsApp update? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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