WhatsApp’s latest Android beta (version 2.25.22.11) now includes a group‑specific status feature in its beta rollout. Users can now post statuses visible only to members of the particular group, directly from the group info interface—without tagging everyone or adjusting privacy settings.
This is a significant departure from the standard group mention feature, streamlining how updates are shared within group contexts. These statuses disappear automatically after 24 hours and are end‑to‑end encrypted just like regular status updates.
🧭 Why This Feature Matters
1. Targeted Communication Within Groups
Users no longer need to send repetitive messages in a busy chat or tag whole group manually—group status makes it easy to send announcements or updates relevant only to that group.
2. Seamless Access and Design
Added via group info UI, the feature offers a clean and intuitive way to post statuses without switching chat threads or modifying privacy settings.
3. Privacy‑First Approach
While statuses are private to group members, they maintain WhatsApp’s commitment to end‑to‑end encryption.
⚙️ How It Works
- Availability: Live now in Android beta version 2.25.22.11 for select users; wider rollout expected in coming weeks.
- Post Creation: Tap the group info, select “Create group status,” then compose and share.
- Visibility & Lifespan: Visible only in Updates tab to group participants; disappears after 24 hours.
- Encryption: Same protections as regular statuses—no outsiders (including WhatsApp) can view content.
📋 Feature Comparison
| Feature | Group‑Specific Status | Regular Status with Group Mention |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Only group members | Depends on status audience settings |
| Access method | Group info menu | Status tab with mentions |
| Auto-expiry | Yes, after 24 hours | Yes, after 24 hours |
| Encryption | End‑to‑end | End‑to‑end |
| Mention required | No | Yes |
🚧 What’s Next & Audience Scope
This is currently a beta-only feature for Android users, with gradual expansion planned. No exact launch date yet, but wider public availability is expected once feedback is incorporated.([turn0search5]turn0search0])
While developers focus on Android, distribution to iOS and desktop/web versions may follow if the feature resonates well with users.
✅ Summary
- Beta Version: Android 2.25.22.11
- Feature: Group‑specific status updates
- Visibility: Only group members, auto‑expire in 24 hours
- Access: Via group info screen
- Security: End‑to‑end encrypted
- Rollout Timeline: Gradual rollout to beta testers, broader release expected
