WhatsApp may show status updates directly in chats tab

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature that would show status updates directly in the chats tab, similar to how Instagram stories appear. The updates would appear in a horizontal row above the chat list, letting users see them without leaving their main conversation view.

Currently, WhatsApp users must tap the profile icon or go to the Updates tab to view status updates. With this new feature, up to three recent updates from contacts will appear in the top bar.

Scrolling down will reveal a full row of all available status updates, including those from archived contacts or people you don’t chat with regularly. Updates from muted contacts will be shown in a separate “Hidden” section.

The design aims to make it easier for users to keep up with status updates while scrolling through chats, removing the need to switch between tabs.

The feature is still in early development and hasn’t been released to beta testers. WhatsApp often tests new features internally, and not all of them reach the public. If released, this change would make status updates more visible and integrated into the main WhatsApp experience.