WhatsApp is currently developing a new optional feature that will allow users to reshare and forward status updates, and it is slated for release in a future update.
According to WABetaInfo, the upcoming feature will provide users with the ability to control whether their status updates can be shared by others, or scheduled for release in a future update.
Currently, the only method to share a status update involves being mentioned by a contact, which enables users to publish that specific update. However, there is no current functionality to reshare regular status updates unless users are directly tagged in them by their contacts.
Once this feature is implemented, a tooltip will appear when a user attempts to share a status update. This tooltip will inform users that they have the option to either allow or disallow others from sharing their status updates.
A dedicated toggle will grant users complete control over this setting, although it will be disabled by default to ensure a private experience for all users from the outset.
Other users will only be able to reshare status updates with their contacts if the original poster explicitly enables this toggle.
When a contact’s status update is shared, the resharing process will remain entirely private. WhatsApp has designed this feature to guarantee that sensitive information is protected at all times.
Specifically, the phone number of the user who originally posted the status update will never be visible to those who receive or view the reshared content.
This privacy measure will apply universally, regardless of how many times a status update is shared.
The new feature is currently under development and is expected to be available in a future WhatsApp update.
