Tech Desk 
Sep 18, 2024
WhatsApp is currently gearing up to roll out a new feature update for its Android version that will allow users to mention their contacts on status updates.
The feature has been in the testing process since March and is somewhat similar to its sibling Meta-owned platform Instagram’s story mention feature.
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What’s new in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.20.3?
According to WABetaInfo, the Status update mentions feature is available for Android beta version 2.24.20.3 of WhatsApp.
The feature will allow users to mention specific contacts when sharing status updates. To mention a contact, users will have to click the “@” button next to the caption bar when sharing a photo or video via a Status update.
However, this option will be available before posting the status, making it easier for users to choose the contacts they want to mention.
Once the contact is mentioned, they will receive a notification when you mention them in the status and can reshare it with their audience through a reshare button. The reshare button will be displayed next to the reply box when viewing the status.
To maintain users’ privacy, unlike Instagram, these tags are private, meaning that other viewers of the status update won't see who's been mentioned. The identity of the original status creator will also remain private when the mentioned contact reshares the status.
Notably, the contact mentioned in your status will be able to see your status even if it's excluded from viewing other status updates through privacy settings.
Currently, this status update mention feature is available to some beta testers and will be rolling out to the public over the coming weeks.
