Meta-owned WhatsApp is gearing up to launch a new feature allowing users to react to status updates with a simple "like," similar to the reactions available on Instagram stories. This update aims to make engaging with content shared by contacts easier and more streamlined.

According to WABetaInfo, this "like" reaction feature is currently being tested by public beta users and has been in development for some time. Users will soon be able to like a status update by tapping on a heart emoji icon located in the bottom left corner of the screen while viewing a status. This action will send a notification to the person who posted the status, letting them know who liked it. Additionally, users will be able to view who liked their statuses through the usual views list.

This feature provides a simple way to connect with contacts without starting a full conversation. It is expected to become just as popular as Instagram’s story likes, which have been widely adopted as a quick way to interact with content.

Notably, these status likes will not interfere with chat threads, ensuring that important conversations remain separate from status reactions. Users can still respond to statuses as before, with no changes to the existing response functionality.

The new like reaction feature is included in the latest WhatsApp beta update, version 2.24.17.21, now available on the Google Play Store. WABetaInfo expects the feature to gradually roll out to more users in the coming weeks.

In addition to this update, WhatsApp is reportedly working on a real-time voice conversation feature with Meta AI’s chatbot, as observed in the beta version 24.16.10.70 for iOS. Users will be able to interact with the AI using a range of voice options to handle various queries. This enhancement marks another step forward in expanding Meta AI’s voice capabilities.