WhatsApp to Roll Out Private Mentions in Status Updates, Meta AI Voice Mode in Works

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to mention others in their status updates, as per WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo. The feature, spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.20.3, is currently not available for testing by users enrolled in the Google Beta Programme.

This new “mentions” feature is designed to be private, meaning only the uploader and the mentioned users can view the status update. Similar to Instagram Stories, mentioned users will receive notifications and can reshare the status. The mention icon, represented by an ‘@’, appears in the text field before sending the status update. Although users currently cannot tag others, the new update will allow tagging of saved contacts. Once tagged, the mentioned user’s name will appear under the uploader’s name, but only visible to involved parties.

In addition, WhatsApp is working on a new Meta AI voice mode feature. This two-way voice communication feature will offer multiple voice options, including accents from the US and UK, and voices from select public figures. However, the names of these public figures have not yet been revealed.