Whatsapp ‘text-only’ status update makes comeback, refreshed design appears in latest version

The old-status update or the 'about' feature has already appeared in the latest WhatsApp beta version 2.17.97. Alongside, the latest Whatsapp beta version introduces refreshed design and chat window layout.

Whatsapp messenger would bring back the popular ‘old-school’ status update, to say so, back in their latest app update along with refreshed design and layout. Last month, Whatsapp introduced some major changes and replace the text-based status update feature with animated video and image based status, similar to Snapchat Stories and Instagram stories. However, the update did not go well with huge number of users and they were left dissapointed with Whatsapp getting all chaotic.

The popular cross-platform Whatsapp messenger app has always been known for its simple user interface and ‘no complicated’ features. Hence, the animated stories based status update feature faced critcism ever since it was rolled out and popular demands surfaced to roll back the update. Well, the company being aware of the criticism did pay attention to millions of Whatsapp users around the world and now the old text-based status update is making its come back. Only, now the old-fashioned status update is renamed as ‘about’.

The old-status update or the ‘about’ feature has already appeared in the latest WhatsApp beta version 2.17.97. Although, the developers have not replaced the animated status update feature and tab from the design, users can set text-based status from the ‘profile’ tab in the app settings. Apparently, this means that the latest app version would feature both old and new status update feature. Users can set privacy to their ‘about’ update and choose the visibility from ‘everyone’, ‘my contacts’, or ‘nobody’, just like the good old times.

Alongside, the latest Whatsapp beta version introduces refreshed design and chat window layout. In the latest version, the app features rounded edges in the typing window and icons. Also, now users would get two independent icons to place a video or voice call in a chat window. Unlike earlier, to place a video or voice call, users would have to confirm to place a call. To place a video or voice call, users can tap on icons at the top of the chat window, respectively.

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Although, the latest update brings the app nowhere closer to being simplistic again. Rather, we believe the newly introduced ‘about’ update, an alias to the previous text-based status update, along with the media-based ‘Status’ still chokes the app. On the bright side, at least the no nonsense ‘text-status’ update is back.

The latest beta version can be downloaded from the Google Play store by beta registered users. A beta version update means a general update is under works and would be rolled out when made stable with less bug by developers.