WhatsApp is testing a new feature that allows users to view status updates directly at the top of the Chats tab. (Image Credits: WABetaInfo) In good news for WhatsApp users, the Meta-owned app is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to check status updates directly at the top of the Chats tab, removing the need to switch to a separate Updates section. The feature is currently being tested with a limited number of beta users. "Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.17.1 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that displays status updates at the top of the Chats tab," WABetaInfo reported. Earlier, users could only see status updates in the Chats tab if they had an active conversation with that contact. For a complete list of updates, they had to open the Updates tab. With this new change, the Meta-owned app is trying to bring all important activity into one place. In the new layout spotted by WABetaInfo, up to three recent status updates appear at the top. Users can scroll to view more updates from other contacts, including archived chats or people they haven’t interacted with recently. The design is similar to how stories appear on Instagram, where updates are placed at the top for quick access. However, the Updates tab is not going away. It will continue to show a full-screen view with larger previews, while the Chats tab will offer a more compact version. The idea is to keep the interface clean while still highlighting new activity. At this stage, the feature looks like an experiment. WhatsApp is likely testing how users respond to this change before deciding on a wider rollout. The feature is currently available only to select beta users who have installed the latest update from the Google Play Store. "By testing it on a limited scale, WhatsApp can collect feedback and evaluate whether users find the new placement useful or distracting. Since it is still an experimental rollout, viewing status updates through the new tray in the Chats tab won't display any ads between statuses," the report said. If the testing goes well, more users are expected to get access in the coming weeks. Get Latest News live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Technology Science and around the world. Sparsh has been diving deep into the worlds of technology, science, and gaming for Times Network, bringing readers the latest updates and insights. Hi... View More