WhatsApp introduces shortcuts for faster status updates

 WhatsApp rolls out quick shortcuts for faster status updates

WhatsApp is working on an innovative update aimed at enhancing the interface of the Updates tab and improving accessibility for users regarding status and channel updates. As reported, this update introduces convenient shortcuts that streamline updating statuses and channels. New tools in WhatsApp beta make sharing voice messages as status updates more accessible. WhatsApp has rolled out a significant update to its beta version for Android, aimed at improving accessibility to status creation tools. The latest update, WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.3.22, introduces a range of new features to make it easier for users to create and share status updates beyond just photos and videos.

The new shortcuts allow users to select and upload photos and videos directly from the interface, simplifying the media selection process and reducing the number of steps required for uploading. The most notable change is the addition of two new shortcuts within the gallery sheet when tapping the floating action button in the ‘Updates’ tab. These shortcuts allow users to quickly create text-based status updates or share voice messages as status updates. Furthermore, the Meta-owned messaging application has introduced a redesigned button for creating text-based status updates and an option for recording and sharing voice status updates. With this update, WhatsApp aims to provide more diverse options for status sharing, enabling users to express themselves in various ways. This feature offers a more efficient and quicker method for users to share text and voice updates without depending on the floating action button. Additionally, WhatsApp has introduced a dedicated shortcut for recording voice messages directly within the status creation screen. Previously, the option to record voice status updates was merged with the text-based status creation feature, which made it less visible to users. 

Both functionalities are integrated into a modernized interface that visually aligns with recent updates to other tabs, facilitating easier navigation and seamless creation of updates. By separating these two options, WhatsApp is making voice status updates more accessible and encouraging users to try this feature. Additionally, WhatsApp is modifying the floating action button within the Updates tab to enable users to share content within channels. This change is expected to benefit users who were unaware that voice messages could already be shared as status updates, helping them discover new ways to communicate with their contacts. When users select the floating action button, they will encounter various options, including the ability to create status updates, initiate new channels or share photos, videos, voice messages and text in their existing channels, assuming they have already set one up. The update makes it easier for WhatsApp users to experiment with different types of content in their status updates, enhancing their overall experience with the app. This redesign consolidates all options for creating status updates and channel content into a cohesive section. 

While the new feature is currently available to a limited group of beta testers, WhatsApp plans to roll it out to more users in the near future. This update follows WhatsApp’s on going effort to make the platform more user-friendly and versatile, reflecting the company's focus on improving its features and usability. Beta testers can currently access them in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.26.13, which is available on the Google Play Store.