WhatsApp is developing a new feature that could let users share Status updates with custom contact lists, similar to Instagram’s Close Friends.
Users may soon create reusable contact lists with names and icons for more private Status sharing.
A Close Friends-style feature is also in development to enable more selective and personal updates.
WhatsApp, after introducing a variety of features, is now working on a new feature that can change how users share their Status updates by introducing a customisable audience list. The feature, currently under development, is said to allow users to create and manage specific groups of contacts, giving more targeted and private sharing.
According to early details as reported by WaBetaInfo, the users will be able to organise their contacts into named lists with icons, making it easier to identify and reuse them for future updates. Instead of manually selecting recipients each time, these lists can be used repeatedly to share content with a defined audience, streamlining the process.
Currently, Meta-owned instant messaging platform allow the users to control the Status update visisbility through different options including sharing with all contacts, excluding specific users or selecting individuals manually. And with this, the company wants to offer more structured and flexible audience controls.
Now, the app is reportedly working on Close Friends option, just how Instagram offers. This option will allow users to create more private circles for sensitive or personal updates. In addition, users may be able to assign names and emojis to custom audiences, with a preview showing how the status will appear when shared.
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While contacts included in the list may see its name and icon when viewing a status, the identities of other members in that group are expected to remain hidden, maintaining user privacy. The reports also mentioned that status updates shared with custom audiences could be visually distinguished, possible via a different colour indicator.
Do note that the feature is currently under development and the feature is not available for beta testers. The report suggests that it may roll out in the future in the coming updates.
