Meta owner popular instant messaging platform WhatsApp strives to make the communication experience among users better with time. In order to achieve that it keeps out rolling updates for users. According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is now working on a new feature to allow users to check contacts who were recently online through the contacts page. This latest functionality was spotted in beta testing first and it aims to inform users about which contact of theirs is active at the moment or was active recently.
The newest update is anticipated to provide users with a faster way to connect with friends, family, or colleagues who are currently available for a quick conversation. This fresh addition, called the Recent Online Contacts tab, was initially discovered by WABetaInfo, a platform known for tracking upcoming features and changes in WhatsApp.
Numerous WhatsApp beta users have reportedly begun seeing this new tab, which allows them to check their recent online contacts directly from their contact list. Although this feature doesn't provide a complete list of contacts, it proves quite handy for users wanting to check the current status of specific contacts before initiating a call or message.
ALSO READ | AI-Generated Explicit Content On Meta's Facebook, Instagram Under Scanner Of Oversight Board
Users' Privacy
Additionally, WABetaInfo noticed that when users navigate to their contacts list to add people to a call, they will encounter a few recent online contacts with whom they haven’t previously communicated. However, this list is not exhaustive and respects users' privacy settings regarding their online status, as mentioned in the report.
Therefore, the introduction of the Recent Online Contacts tab aligns with WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to optimise its app and regularly update it with beneficial features. By prompting users to connect with contacts who have recently been active, WhatsApp facilitates easier access to the availability status of any contact on their device.