WhatsApp to roll out stickers, music, drawing tools for status updates
With the new update, users will now be able to access a richer set of customisation options without having to switch to photo or video formats.
WhatsApp is planning to roll out a new set of tools that will allow users to personalise their text status updates with stickers, emojis, music clips, and even drawing tools.
Previously, text statuses were limited to simple text on a selection of coloured backgrounds.
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With the new update, users will now be able to access a richer set of customisation options without having to switch to photo or video formats.
These additions bring WhatsApp’s Status feature closer in line with Instagram Stories, where multimedia enhancements have long been standard.
The update is currently being tested by beta users, ahead of a wider rollout at a later date.
This latest enhancement follows WhatsApp’s broader efforts in 2025 to revamp the Status experience, which has already seen the introduction of photo collages, music stickers that allow users to add audio to photos and videos, and interactive “Add Yours” prompts launched earlier in the year.
With over two billion users worldwide, WhatsApp’s Status feature has become one of the most widely used ephemeral content tools globally.
However, it continues to face growing competition from platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and Telegram.
WhatsApp is also reportedly working on a feature that will display a raised hand emoji during voice and video calls, aimed at improving communication and helping users indicate when they wish to speak in group conversations.
This simple visual cue will be particularly useful during large group calls, allowing participants to raise a hand before speaking.
In addition, WhatsApp is planning to expand the Updates tab with new tools, including channel subscriptions, promoted channels, and advertisements in Status.
However, the proposed introduction of ads in Status has faced criticism from users who are concerned about privacy implications and a potential shift away from the platform’s traditionally ad-free experience.
Many long-time users worry this move could undermine WhatsApp’s core values of simplicity and user trust, while others view it as a necessary step towards monetisation and supporting content creators.
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