WhatsApp is reportedly working on two new Android features that could make messaging more convenient and help users manage their data more efficiently.
According to a report by WABetaInfo, the platform is testing an Online Indicator feature and a Chat Backup Management tool in its beta version.
The Online Indicator feature will allow users to quickly see which of their contacts are currently active on WhatsApp. A small green dot will appear next to a contact’s profile picture, signaling that the person is online and available for chat in real time.
This indicator is expected to be visible from the chat information screen, eliminating the need to open a conversation just to check a contact’s online status. Users who prefer privacy will still be able to hide their online activity through WhatsApp’s privacy settings.
The green dot system resembles the online status indicators already used by platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, making it easier for users to identify active contacts at a glance.
In addition, WhatsApp is also developing a new Backup Management section. This feature will enable users to view, delete, and duplicate previous chat backups, helping them better organize their stored data and free up device storage space.
The report notes that the backup management tool is still in the early stages of development and is not yet available even to beta testers. Once released, it is expected to include a shortcut to Google Drive storage for easier backup management.
WhatsApp has not announced an official release date for either feature, but both additions are expected to enhance user experience and provide greater control over messaging and storage management.
