WhatsApp has started introducing a redesigned About section that allows users to set temporary activity updates with custom messages and adjustable visibility timers. The update supports quick edits, privacy controls and automatic expiry.
According to a report, the feature also brings the About bubble directly into chats, so users can view a contact’s current status without opening their profile. The update is available to some users on the latest App Store version and will reach more people over the coming weeks.
How the new About feature works
The report states that the updated About section now works like a temporary status tool. Users can set short activity updates such as “In a meeting,” “Out for lunch,” or “Traveling” and choose how long these remain visible. WhatsApp offers flexible timer options that range from a few hours to an entire month. The status disappears after the selected time. This ensures that profiles remain accurate even if users forget to update them. The app also shows how much time is left before the status expires, helping users decide whether to extend, shorten or change it.
WhatsApp has also added the About bubble inside the chat interface. Users can now see a contact’s temporary status while scrolling through their chat list or responding to messages. This helps in daily situations. For example, if a colleague sets “In a meeting” for two hours, it becomes clear why they may not respond. If a friend sets “Traveling” for the day, users can understand their availability without having to ask.
To make these updates more expressive, WhatsApp also supports emojis. A coffee cup can suggest a break, while a suitcase can indicate travel. Users can select preset durations such as one day or one week. The redesigned About feature is a major upgrade from the earlier static version, which often displayed outdated information if users did not update it manually.
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