WhatsApp tests Instagram-like 'Close Friends' feature for more private status updates

WhatsApp is on the verge of launching an innovative feature aimed at enhancing privacy in status sharing, reminiscent of Instagram's beloved Close Friends functionality. The latest iOS beta version (25.23.10.80 via TestFlight) reveals that users will soon have the ability to curate a special list of close friends directly from their privacy settings. Once this list is established, users can share status updates solely with this selected group rather than broadcasting to all contacts. WhatsApp is also experimenting with unique color coding to visually differentiate these exclusive posts from regular status updates. Similar to current status updates, these close friends’ messages will vanish after 24 hours, maintaining end-to-end encryption for maximum confidentiality—ensuring that neither Meta nor WhatsApp can access the content. Privacy is a cornerstone of this new feature. Notably, users will not receive notifications when they are added to or removed from the close friends list, effectively avoiding any potential awkward situations. Additionally, only those included in the list at the time of posting will be able to view the update, meaning that newcomers won’t have access unless the status is re-uploaded. This addition enhances the personal touch on WhatsApp, aligning with Instagram’s strategy but tailored for the messaging platform. It also complements WhatsApp's recent initiatives to broaden its functionality beyond simple messaging, including the introduction of an AI tool for drafting and rephrasing messages and trials of disappearing messages that can vanish in as little as an hour. While WhatsApp has yet to make an official announcement regarding the Close Friends feature, its presence in beta testing suggests a rollout to users could be imminent in the upcoming weeks.