This week, WhatsApp is introducing mechanisms to combat misinformation in status messages, ending support for avatars, testing automatic archiving of expired status messages, improving chat list navigation, preparing a widget for Android, and finalizing the Liquid Glass design on iOS.
Table of Contents
Frequently Forwarded Status Warning
WhatsApp is introducing a feature that shows when status updates have been retweeted multiple times.
How it will work
If a status has been retweeted at least five times, a “Forwarded Many Times” label will appear on the status screen. The forward count is tracked anonymously, without access to the content (encryption is maintained). The label itself does not reveal the original author.
Why it’s needed
This helps users recognize potentially false or viral information that spreads quickly through status updates. It reduces the risk of spreading fake news.
Status
This feature is available to some Android beta testers. It may also appear in stable versions to evaluate its effectiveness.
Avatar Support Discontinued
WhatsApp is discontinuing support for avatars on Android and iOS, removing the ability to create, edit, and use them in profiles.
How it will work
WhatsApp is gradually removing the avatar feature from the app. Users can no longer create, edit, or manage their avatars. The section in Settings disappears, and the avatar button is removed from the keyboard. Previously sent avatar stickers, however, remain in recent or favorites.
Why it’s needed
This is necessary because the feature is low in popularity—only a small percentage of users actively used avatars. WhatsApp is focusing on more commonly used tools.
Status
The phased removal has already begun and has affected many iOS and Android users. The feature is expected to disappear completely in the coming weeks.
Archiving Expired Statuses
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to archive their status updates after they expire.
How it will work
A “Status Archive” option will appear in Settings. Once enabled, all expired (24 hours) statuses will be automatically saved on the device in a separate, private archive. On WhatsApp Messenger, the archive is stored indefinitely (unlike WhatsApp Business, where the archive is limited to 30 days). The user can delete any archived status at any time or disable the feature entirely.
Why it’s needed
This allows you to keep important or beautiful statuses that disappear after 24 hours. It’s convenient for reusing content or simply for personal archiving.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. Expected to be released in a future update.
New Chat List Viewing System
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will redesign chat lists with a new interface.
How it will work
The entire collection of lists (standard and custom) will no longer be displayed in a single row. Instead, the interface will show only the user-selected lists. The rest are hidden behind the “More” button. For example, you can now remove an empty “Favorites” list from the main panel.
Why it’s needed
This reduces visual clutter at the top of the “Chats” tab, especially for those who have created many lists. It speeds up access to the categories that are truly important.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. Expected to be released in a future update.
Status widget on the home screen
WhatsApp is working on a new widget that will show who has shared status updates.
How it will work
You can add a widget to your home screen that shows which of your contacts (up to three) have recently posted a status. Contacts are selected based on their interaction rate (frequency of interaction, recent chats, pinned conversations, and how close their status is to expiration). The widget also includes a button for quickly creating a new status.
Why it’s needed
This allows you to check new statuses without opening WhatsApp. It speeds up viewing and posting.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. A release is expected in a future update.
Liquid Glass for the Reaction Bar and Context Menu
WhatsApp is working to bring the Reaction Bar and Messages context menu in line with the Liquid Glass design.
How it will work
In the chat interface, the reaction bar (the emoji below the message) and the context menu (which appears when you long-press on a message) will be updated in the style of Liquid Glass: a translucent “glass” background, subtle layering and reflection effects. Elements visually blend with the chat content, rather than appearing as solid blocks.
Why it’s needed
Completes WhatsApp’s adaptation to the iOS 26 design language, making the interface uniform, lightweight, and modern.
Status
This feature is in development for iOS. It will be available once all Liquid Glass elements are completed.
Conclusion
WhatsApp is enhancing status transparency (the frequently forwarded flag), removing unpopular avatars, and adding practical tools: an archive of expired statuses, a widget on Android, and a redesign of chat lists. Liquid Glass continues to permeate the smallest elements of the iOS version.
At GREEN-API, we’re keeping an eye on the latest news and will keep you updated on any significant updates. We’re also constantly working to introduce new features to our service to make your experience even more convenient. Follow our blog to stay up-to-date on new and useful features in WhatsApp!