WhatsApp announces new features for Status, an AIM away message for the 21st century
WhatsApp Status is getting a bit of a facelift.
Status is WhatsApp's version of an AIM away message (an ancient AOL feature from the early days of the social internet), which basically allows users to say what they're up to while they're not near the app. In a new feature released on Thursday, you can personalize your Status just like you would an Instagram Story.
"WhatsApp Status is your private space to keep the people who matter most to you up to date on what’s happening day to day. Whether it's your wedding day and you’re using Status to give those who couldn’t make a front row seat or you just want to share what made you smile most today, bring even more of your personality to each Status," a press release from WhatsApp reads.
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You can turn your away message into a collage, like you would in Instagram Stories, by using the layout tool. You can add music, post stickers, and add the "Add Yours" sticker, all of which you can already do on Instagram Stories.
If it isn't clear at this point, Meta owns both Instagram and WhatsApp, so the similarities aren't shocking. Plus, it's sort of Meta's MO to add in features users may or may not want as a ploy to keep them on the platform longer.
"Whether you’re sharing the everyday moments that make up your life or a big occasion, we hope these new features give you even more ways to bring those closest to you along and up to date on what’s happening," the press release adds.
The features began rolling out on Thursday and will continue rolling out over the next few months.
Christianna Silva is a senior culture reporter covering social platforms and the creator economy, with a focus on the intersection of social media, politics, and the economic systems that govern us. Since joining Mashable in 2021, they have reported extensively on meme creators, content moderation, and the nature of online creation under capitalism.
Before joining Mashable, they worked as an editor at NPR and MTV News, a reporter at Teen Vogue and VICE News, and as a stablehand at a mini-horse farm. You can follow her on Bluesky @christiannaj.bsky.social and Instagram @christianna_j.
