WhatsApp is working on a new feature that could make Status sharing more private and convenient. The upcoming update is expected to introduce custom status lists, giving users better control over who can view their updates.
Right now, users can choose from basic privacy settings like sharing with all contacts or hiding updates from selected people. With the new system, sharing may become much more flexible and personal.
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What Are WhatsApp Custom Status Lists?
Custom status lists are expected to let users create separate groups for Status sharing. For example, you may be able to make lists such as:
- Family
- Close Friends
- Work Contacts
- School Friends
When posting a Status, you could choose one of these lists instead of changing privacy settings every time. This would make the process faster and easier.
Reports also suggest that users may be able to name lists and add emojis for quick identification.
Close Friends Option May Also Arrive
WhatsApp is also testing a Close Friends feature as part of this update. This option would allow users to share personal updates with only a small group of trusted contacts.
For example, if you post a private photo or casual update, you could choose your Close Friends list instead of sending it to everyone.
Some reports mention that these private Status updates may have a special visual mark, such as a different colored ring around the profile picture, making them easy to identify.
Importantly, contacts would not be notified whether they are included or removed from your list.
Why This Feature Matters
Many users avoid posting personal updates because they do not want every contact to see them. Custom lists could solve that problem by offering better privacy control.
Benefits may include:
- Share family moments only with relatives
- Send fun updates only to close friends
- Keep work contacts separate from personal posts
- Save time by avoiding repeated privacy changes
This could make WhatsApp Status feel more useful and comfortable for everyday use.
Also read: How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on iPhone and Android
More Options Could Be Added Later
Future updates may include extra controls such as:
- Creating multiple custom lists
- Editing lists anytime
- Adding or removing contacts easily
- Switching between lists while posting Status
Any changes would likely apply to future Status posts rather than old ones.
When Will It Be Available?
The feature is still under development and has not been released to everyone yet. It has reportedly appeared in beta testing, which usually means a wider rollout may happen later.
Once ready, it is expected to arrive on both Android and iPhone through a future WhatsApp update.
Also read: I Thought My WhatsApp Was Safe—Until I Checked These Settings
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp custom status lists could become one of the most useful privacy features added to Status in recent times. It would give users more control, save time, and make sharing updates more personal.
If you regularly use WhatsApp Status, this is a feature worth watching for. Keep your app updated so you can try it when it officially launches.
Abhi Rajput, founder of EarnAbhi.in, is a tech lover with 6+ years of experience in SEO, digital tools, and smartphone troubleshooting. He writes simple, clear, and useful guides to help people solve real tech problems.