WhatsApp is bringing back its original About feature with several updates designed to make short, timely status messages easier to share and view. The feature, which was part of the app’s earliest version, is being reintroduced with a more prominent placement across chats and user profiles.
The company said the refreshed feature is intended for moments when availability changes quickly. Users can share a short phrase and an emoji to explain whether they are free, busy, or only open to certain conversations. WhatsApp noted that this provides a simple way to signal availability without sending a message.
New placement and expiration controls
The updated About now appears at the top of one-to-one chats and on profile pages. Users can tap someone’s About within a chat to reply directly, making it easier to start a conversation based on the status shared.
Each About update expires by default after one day. Users can shorten or extend this duration in Settings by selecting Set About and choosing a custom timer. This flexibility allows About to function as either a quick, temporary update or a longer-term status, depending on the user’s preference.
Privacy options for selective sharing
WhatsApp has included privacy controls that allow users to decide who can see their About. Visibility can be restricted to contacts or expanded more broadly through privacy settings. These options give users more control over how widely their status is shared, aligning with WhatsApp’s ongoing focus on privacy.
The improved About feature is rolling out to all mobile users starting this week.
