WhatsApp is getting an Instagram Notes-like feature

WhatsApp is getting its own version of the status update feature, similar to Instagram Notes.

Like on Instagram, the new feature allows users of the Meta-owned messaging app to post a short text update that others can see. In this area, you can let people know what you are up to or what is new in your life.

The company suggests that users can also post something that could serve as a conversation starter, or they can use the space to share why they’re not available to talk at the moment.

Although the addition may be new to many, the company points out in a blog post that the “About” feature, as it is called, was actually the first feature for WhatsApp. Before WhatsApp focused on secure and private messaging, it allowed people to quickly share short updates like this.

With the relaunch of the feature, WhatsApp is making users’ About status more visible than before. Others will now be able to see your status at the top of their one-on-one conversations with friends and user profiles. Additionally, users can tap on someone’s About status in the chat to reply to them directly.

Like Instagram Notes, WhatsApp About status will disappear within a day by default.

However, the company says users can set a timer if they want it to go away more quickly or last longer than 24 hours. Additionally, users can decide whether their About status can be seen by their contacts only or whether it is publicly visible.

At launch, the feature wasn’t as robust as Instagram Notes, which also supports short, looping videos and offers integrations that let you share the music you stream. But if the new feature sees widespread adoption, these types of improvements could come in time.

WhatsApp says the feature will now be rolled out to users on mobile devices starting this week.