Ending months old speculation, WhatsApp finally revamped its widely popular messaging app to introduce the Snapchat-like ‘Status’ feature across all platforms. This added to the joy of most users as they now had an option to share their daily life using photos, GIFs, and videos on the app. But, many others were opposed to and upset with the removal of the old text-based status feature.
The product team at WhatsApp seems to have taken notice of the feedback and grievances of its users. They’re noticeably working on bringing this feature back from the death, only a mere five days post the launch of the new Status feature. This development has been spotted by Twitter user, WABetaInfo, who’s a reliable WhatsApp feature tipster. He had earlier predicted the arrival of the new Status feature, which would be similar to Snapchat(or Instagram) Stories.
#Exclusive by @WABetaInfo:
WhatsApp will restore the old Status!
Its new name will be “Tagline”!— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) February 24, 2017
But, as you can notice in the screenshots attached, the messaging giant is looking to bring back the said feature in conjunction with the new Status feature. This will essentially be a rebranded iteration of the previously available text-based status feature without additional changes. You will again be able to add a permanent line of text, complete with emojis, to your WhatsApp profile. But, this feature may now be renamed to ‘Tagline’ instead of ‘Status,’ which has been taken up by the new Snapchat-like feature.
WhatsApp beta for iOS 2.17.6.21 and for Windows Phone 2.17.82: the Tagline feature! (#hidden) pic.twitter.com/V8zm9Wfsge
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) February 24, 2017
There is currently no way to access this rebranded version of the text-based Status feature as it is hidden in the beta apps on Android, Windows, and iOS. Additionally, you can also notice that you will regain control over the Privacy and visibility settings of the Tagline feature in forthcoming updates.
WhatsApp beta for Windows Phone 2.17.82: Added Tagline privacy settings. (#hidden) pic.twitter.com/g6MxgBIglY
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) February 24, 2017
At this moment, one cannot predict whether the widely preferred status feature will make a return soon or not. It is also not certain if the old status feature will reappear as Tagline as WABetaInfo spotted that it has been renamed to Status in the latest iOS beta. But, it is certain that WhatsApp is looking for a way around the criticism for following in its parent’s footsteps. The lackluster Snapchat clone is failing to attract appreciation from the populace — but it isn’t half bad.
What is your opinion on the rebirth of the old Status feature? Do you wish WhatsApp could bring it back right this instant? Comment your thoughts down below.
