WhatsApp Introduces New 'About' Status Feature Inspired by Instagram Notes


WhatsApp Introduces New 'About' Status Feature Inspired by Instagram Notes
  • WhatsApp brings back its classic About feature in a new Notes-style format.
  • Updates appear at the top of chats and disappear after 24 hours.
  • Users can share quick thoughts, status updates, or availability with custom visibility controls.

WhatsApp has rolled out a refreshed version of its 'About' status, giving users a new way to share quick text updates that work much like Instagram Notes. The feature, now more visible and interactive, lets people post short messages that appear at the top of one-on-one chats and on their profile, making it easier for others to see what they’re up to or why they may be unavailable.

The company said the About status isn’t new, it was actually WhatsApp’s original feature before the app shifted fully toward private messaging. With this relaunch, Meta aims to bring lightweight, conversational updates back into the user experience. Anyone who receives an About update can tap it directly in the chat to respond, creating an easy entry point for conversations.

By default, the About update disappears after 24 hours, but users can change the timing to make it shorter or longer. They can also choose who sees their updates, offering options similar to WhatsApp’s privacy settings for Stories and Status.

Also Read: WhatsApp Tests Multi-Account Support and Usernames in Major Upgrade

While this feature mirrors Instagram Notes in many ways, it currently lacks some of Notes’ newer additions, such as looping videos or music-sharing. WhatsApp said it may expand functionality over time depending on how users respond to the rollout.

The new About status is now rolling out to mobile users globally and is expected to reach everyone over the coming days.