WhatsApp’s latest Beta version for Android introduces an exciting new feature allowing users to mention contacts directly in their status updates. Currently in Beta 2.24.20.3, this tool lets you tag specific contacts, notifying only them, without alerting other viewers. Here’s how you can use it and what makes it unique compared to other platforms.
WhatsApp has released some exciting new features recently, one of the most talked-about being the ability to mention contacts in status updates.
This feature is all related to the WhatsApp Beta version 2.24.20.3 for Android and is gaining much attention. Let us exactly know what this update brings, mainly the “mention” feature in status, which was not present there before and how you can use it effectively.
What’s New in WhatsApp Beta Version 2.24.20.3?
WhatsApp’s new update allows users to mention contacts directly in their status updates, it is similar to tagging friends in Instagram stories or Facebook posts.
But it comes with a surprise and twist: only the mentioned person gets notified, keeping the mention secret from others. Here is a breakdown of this new feature and how you can use it.
How Do WhatsApp Status Mentions Work?
With the status mentions, you can tag someone secretly in your status. Only the tagged person will know, and no one else watching your status can see the mention. This is mainly useful if you want to draw someone’s attention to your status without letting everyone know.
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Steps to Mention Someone in WhatsApp Status:
Here are the steps which will let you know how you can use this feature:
- Open WhatsApp and go to the Status page: Open the app and navigate to the Status section, where you can make a new update.
- Capture or select an image/video: You can take a photo, video, or choose one from your gallery.
- Tap the @ icon: When you are about to add a caption, you will see there is a new “@” symbol next to the text box.
- Select the contact to mention: After clicking the “@” icon, search for the contact you want to mention and choose their name.
- Post your status: Once you are done with selecting the person you want to tag, click on the checkmark to post your status. Only the mentioned contact will receive a notification saying they were tagged.
Important Details:
- A maximum of 5 contacts can be tagged per status.
- The person you mention will get a notification and a chat message, which let them know they have been tagged in any status.
- Only the mentioned contact will know about the tag. This feature also overrides some privacy settings, so even if the mentioned person is blocked from viewing your other statuses, they will still see this one.
Why Is This Feature Important?
The capability to mention contacts in WhatsApp status updates gives users a more personalized communication method. It can be a great way to keep chats private yet still engage with someone through your status. It is perfect for friends, work colleagues, or even in group chats where you want to highlight something for specific members without letting everyone involve.
Step-by-Step Guide for New Users
For beginners, here is a simple guide on how to get started with this feature:
Step 1: Install or Update to the Beta Version
To access this feature, you need to be a part of the WhatsApp beta program. If you are not already enrolled, you can visit the Google Play Store, find WhatsApp, and scroll down to join the beta program.
Step 2: Enable Status Mentions
Once you are on WhatsApp Beta version 2.24.20.3, you will find the mention feature available in the Status section.
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Step 3: Use Mentions in Status
- Create a status update by clicking on the camera icon or choosing a file from your gallery.
- Tap the @ icon when adding a caption.
- Select up to 5 contacts to mention and then post your status.
The tagged person will get a notification, but no one else will see the tag. You can also review whom you have tagged by clicking on the 3-dots menu in the Status section and selecting “View Mentions.”
New Features in Recent WhatsApp Updates
Besides the status mention feature, here are some other updates that have been introduced recently:
- Voice Message Transcription: This feature converts voice messages into text, which can be a lifesaver if you are in a noisy environment or can not listen to audio messages.
- Username Support: Soon, WhatsApp will allow users to select unique usernames, making it easier to connect without sharing phone numbers.
- Enhanced Privacy Tools: WhatsApp has improved its privacy features, including more controls over who can view your last seen, profile photo, and status updates.
- Redesigned Interface: The app also sees a sleeker, more attractive design, focusing on making it easier for users to access their chats and settings.
People May Ask
Who can see the mention in my WhatsApp status?
Only the person you have mentioned will receive a notification. Other viewers of your status would not know about the mention.
How many people can I mention in one status?
You can mention up to 5 people per status update.
Can someone mention me in their status if I have blocked them?
No, if you have blocked someone, they would not be able to mention you in their status.
Can I disable being mentioned in statuses?
Unfortunately, WhatsApp does not have an option to disable being tagged in statuses. The only way to prevent someone from mentioning you is by blocking them or muting their updates.
Yes, if you were mentioned in a status, you have the option to reshare it. However, the original poster’s name remains hidden when you do so.
To learn more details, click here.
