WhatsApp is changing how key app features work — and it’s MUCH better

WHATSAPP changes its status function to be more useful.

A secret update for the app has been revealed – possibly months before it goes live.

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WhatsApp regularly tests new features in the “Beta Test” version of the app.

Now the detectives from WABetaInfo have discovered a change to the app that is “under development” in a screenshot.

Status updates now have a better preview when sharing links in status updates.

This brings it more in line with Instagram.

“As you can see in this screenshot, rich link previews will also be available in a future update of WhatsApp Beta for Android,” WABetaInfo explained.

“Rich link previews are always generated when the user waits a few seconds before sharing the link as a status update.

“And recipients can see them if the feature is enabled on their WhatsApp account.

“This is another improvement for text status updates after some users made small UI changes last week.”

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know exactly when this change will go live.

The Status feature is very similar to Stories on Instagram.

Launched in February 2017, it mimicked competing chat apps like Snapchat and Facebook.

But that final change could be days, weeks, or even months away — if it even rolls out to the public at all.

If you want to try new WhatsApp features first, follow our guide to joining the beta.

How to get WhatsApp beta

To download WhatsApp Beta for your smartphone, you need to go to Google Play on your Android and search for WhatsApp.

Scroll down the page until you see “Become a Beta Tester”.

Tap the “I’m in” button, then tap “Join” to confirm.

Now all you have to do is wait for the update to the beta version of the app.

Participating in the WhatsApp beta on iPhone is more difficult and has a limited capacity.

Follow Apple’s instructions here.

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