WhatsApp is working on a significant update that will allow users to reshare and forward status updates, introducing a new way to interact on the platform while maintaining a strong emphasis on privacy. The feature, currently under development and expected to be released in a future update, will offer users the ability to control whether their status updates can be shared with others — a function that does not exist in the current version of the app.
How Status Sharing Works Today
At present, WhatsApp status updates can only be shared in very limited circumstances. Specifically, users can only reshare a status update if they are directly mentioned or tagged by a contact. This allows them to publish that particular update themselves. However, resharing regular status updates — ones without direct mentions — is not currently supported.
Read More: Indian travel firms report drop in Turkey bookings over Pakistan support
New Sharing Controls with Privacy at the Core
With the new update, users will be presented with a dedicated toggle option that allows them to enable or disable the ability for others to reshare their status updates. This toggle will be located in the status privacy settings and is disabled by default, meaning users will need to actively opt-in if they want their updates to be shareable.
Once the feature is live, a tooltip will appear when users attempt to share a status update. This tooltip will inform them about the new sharing options and provide a clear explanation of whether or not resharing is permitted for that particular update.
Private by Design
Importantly, even when a status update is reshared, user privacy remains fully protected. WhatsApp has ensured that the original poster’s phone number or personal details will never be visible to those who receive the reshared status — regardless of how many times it is forwarded or who ultimately sees it. This privacy measure applies universally and will remain in effect throughout all stages of resharing. This design choice reflects WhatsApp’s broader commitment to maintaining user privacy, even as it introduces features that encourage broader content sharing.
Cross-Platform Sharing and Additional Features
In addition to resharing within WhatsApp, the update may also integrate with Meta’s broader ecosystem. Reports suggest that users will be able to share their WhatsApp status updates on platforms like Facebook and Instagram through the “Accounts Center”. This would allow for seamless cross-platform posting, while still maintaining control over who can view and reshare the content.
Read More: Trump announces big Boeing order for Qatar Airways
The new resharing feature is still under development and has not yet been made available to users. However, trusted sources such as WABetaInfo have confirmed that it will be included in a future version of the app. Once released, users will have the choice to maintain the current private status-sharing model or enable the resharing toggle to reach a wider audience.