O WhatsApp has started rolling out a new feature that promises to change the way viral content spreads on the platform: the ability to share and forward Status updates. The new feature was detected in beta version 2.25.18.9 for Android, which began rolling out this Friday, the 6th, through the Google Play Store.
A new option before publishing
One of the most interesting changes to this feature is the introduction of an additional step before posting any photo or video to Status. Now, the user will have to actively choose whether or not to allow that specific update to be shared with their contacts.
This means that control over the virality of the content is in the hands of the person who publishes it, who can decide on a case-by-case basis what can or cannot be forwarded.
WhatsApp tests temporary logout feature
Anonymous sharing to protect the original author
In addition to facilitating the circulation of popular images and videos, WhatsApp has implemented a fundamental privacy layer in this new system. According to information provided by BetaInfo, when a contact forwards someone else's Status, the original author's name is not associated with the share.
As a result, the sharing chain remains private and completely unrelated to the person who created the initial content, ensuring the anonymity of the author. If you are a user of the beta version of WhatsApp for Android, this feature may already be available to you in the “Updates” tab.
