Key Highlights
- WhatsApp’s reply bar simplifies status update responses effortlessly.
- WhatsApp Adopts Instagram-Style Reply Bar.
- Android and iOS users can experience the feature’s beta version.
WhatsApp, the widely-used instant messaging app under the Meta umbrella, is on the brink of revolutionizing user interaction with its latest feature – the reply bar for status updates. Currently in beta testing, this innovative addition simplifies the process of responding to status updates, drawing parallels with Instagram’s approach to story replies.
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Accessing The Beta Version
Reports from WABetaInfo reveal that the reply bar for status updates will be available for both Android and iOS users. Beta enthusiasts can get a firsthand experience by installing the latest beta version from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the TestFlight app (for iOS).
Beta testers of WhatsApp version 2.2.26.3 on Android and v23.15.10.72 on iOS are witnessing the persistent display of the new Reply bar at the bottom of the screen when viewing status updates. This replaces the previous swipe-up gesture for initiating a reply, aligning WhatsApp’s interface more closely with Instagram Stories.
While currently in the beta phase, the feature is expected to roll out to all users soon. Once it successfully completes the testing phase and any necessary adjustments are made, all users can look forward to a more streamlined and user-friendly interaction with status updates.
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Additional WhatsApp Updates
In tandem with the reply bar feature, WhatsApp is introducing another layer of privacy with the “view once” feature for audio messages. Similar to its counterparts for photos and videos, this feature ensures that audio messages disappear after being played, enhancing user privacy.
For iOS users, WhatsApp is rolling out two new features: message pinning and a connection health check during video calls. This aligns with Meta’s strategy of harmonizing features across its platforms, with WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and Facebook sharing common elements.
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