WhatsApp continues to test various features to constantly refresh the messaging experience. In the Android beta versions 2.26.6.9 and 2.26.11.2, a brand-new design change has been discovered that allows status updates to appear directly at the top of the Chats tab. This feature will enable users to view the latest statuses quickly upon opening the app without having to switch to a different tab.

Instagram-Style Status Updates Discovered in WhatsApp Beta

In this new design currently under development, a short preview of up to three people who have shared a status will initially appear in the top bar. When users perform a downward scroll on the main screen, a horizontal row—much like Instagram Stories—will reveal all status updates. This horizontal list will include not only frequent contacts but also archived chats and contacts with whom you don’t interact actively.

To maintain a clean interface, muted status updates will not be shown directly in this new UI. Instead, muted posts will be collected in a separate section labeled “Hidden.” This change allows users to follow all developments from a single screen without needing to navigate to the “Updates” section. The status bar only becomes visible above the search bar when the user scrolls down.

Early Development Stage and Potential Rollout

It is important to note that this feature is in a very early stage of development. The development team is conducting extensive evaluations to measure whether this change will be beneficial for the general public. Similar to the “search for draft messages” feature—which was coded but never released—there is a possibility that this horizontal status bar might be canceled based on test results and never reach the global user base.

What do you think about this planned addition to the Chats tab? Would seeing status updates directly on the home screen make the app more practical for you, or do you prefer the current separation? Share your thoughts in the comments!