WhatsApp is testing a feature that lets you preview status updates
WhatsApp for Android is testing a new layout for the status updates page, according to details shared by a feature tracker. The instant messaging platform is expected to roll out the modern interface to users on iOS and Android smartphones in the future. Additionally, users will reportedly be able to view statuses without opening them. This development comes amid another revelation about WhatsApp that is also testing a fix for the emoji keyboard crash that is reportedly plaguing some Android users.
WhatsApp is testing a new user interface for status updates
According to feature tracker WABetaInfo, the instant messaging platform’s new layout for status updates unroll with WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.12.20. While some beta testers reportedly had access to this change in an earlier version, it has been rolled out to more users with the latest update.
New Status UI on WhatsApp for Android Beta Version
Photo credit: WABetaInfo
A screenshot shared by WABetaInfo shows that a new and larger thumbnail for status updates has been introduced, replacing the existing smaller circular window. It is speculated that users will be able to catch a glimpse of the status update through this thumbnail without having to open it. However, it still remains pinned at the top of the screen below the search bar, which means its placement has not changed, according to the feature tracker.
The latest WhatsApp for Android beta update also brings a new layout for the WhatsApp channel recommendation panel. Currently, the status update page also includes the Find channels option at the end where recommended channels are present for users. With the update, it has been modified and now reportedly has a horizontal orientation.
The report suggests that these changes will be available to beta testers who install the latest WhatsApp for Android beta update from the Google Play Store. It may roll out to more people in the coming days. At the time of writing, it had not yet rolled out to a Gadget 360 employee who is part of the beta channel.
WhatsApp working on fix for Emoji keyboard crash
It is also reported that the platform is also working on a fix for the emoji keyboard crash that some users have been experiencing recently. It was spotted in WhatsApp for Android version 2.24.12.23 available on the Google Play Store.
This update is available to anyone enrolled in WhatsApp’s beta program, the report said.
