Whatsapp launches Snapchat “Status”, Instagram Stories-Like Feature, Claims "Unique" And Improved 2009 Version

A new rollout by Whatsapp looks like encrypted versions of Snapchat and Instagram features. Techcrunch reports that the WhatsApp Status tab now allows its users to share jazzed-up photos, videos and GIFs on the platform, and will appear only in the next 24 hours.

WhatsApp founder Jam Koum claimed that they have been improving this feature since 2009. On the day of the release, he wrote, "Starting today, we are rolling out an update to status, which allows you to share photos and videos with your friends and contacts on WhatsApp in an easy and secure way. Yes, even your status updates are end-to-end encrypted. Just like eight years ago when we first started WhatsApp, this new and improved status feature will let you keep your friends who use WhatsApp easily updated in a fun and simple way. From all of us at WhatsApp, we hope you enjoy it!"

The “Status” feature was said to have debuted as early as November last year to beta users for testing. Like Snapchat and Instagram Stories, users can shoot and decorate their content with captions and drawings, share and view private content from their contacts  and reply via private message. Sending content to friends, however, is still being done via DM.

CNBC said WhatsApp’s version stands out for a few more reasons. One, since all Status updates are encrypted end-to-end, there is really no way to retrieve them once 24 hours has passed. Videos can be up to 45 seconds long as compared to the 10-second timeframe in the competitor apps. Moreover, Status updates can only be strictly shared to people in a user’s address book.