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WhatsApp adds new status alert feature for Android users
24th September, 2026 07:26 AM
WhatsApp has introduced a new status notification feature for Android users, allowing people to receive alerts when selected contacts share new status updates.
The feature is designed for users who do not want to miss updates from specific people, particularly because WhatsApp statuses disappear after 24 hours.
Status notifications are turned off by default, meaning users will not automatically receive alerts every time a contact posts a new status. However, WhatsApp now allows users to manually enable notifications for individual contacts.
“You can turn on status notifications to make sure you don’t miss new statuses from specific people. Status notifications are muted by default, but you can unmute them for individual people to get a notification when they add a status,” WhatsApp stated.
Once enabled, users can receive a notification whenever the selected person uploads a new status, making it easier to keep up with updates without repeatedly checking the Updates tab.
How to turn on WhatsApp status notifications
Android users can manage the feature directly from the Updates tab.
First, open WhatsApp and tap a status posted by the person whose updates you want to follow. Tap the three-dot More menu and select Get notifications, then tap Get Notifications again to confirm.
Users can also manage the setting through the Chats tab.
To do this, tap the search bar and enter the name of the contact. Press and hold the shared chat, then select the three-dot ‘More’ menu followed by ‘View Contact and Notifications’.
Under the Statuses section, users can then switch the Mute notifications option on or off depending on their preference.
WhatsApp has also reminded users that hidden statuses will continue to appear in the Updates tab. However, there are limitations to the new alert feature.
Users cannot turn on notifications for a status that has already been hidden. Similarly, hiding a contact’s status means the user will no longer receive status notifications from that person.
The feature gives users more control over which status updates deserve their attention, instead of receiving unnecessary alerts for every contact.
WhatsApp statuses can include photos, videos, text and other updates shared with contacts and remain available for 24 hours before disappearing.
The new notification option is currently available on Android only, giving users on the platform a way to stay updated on posts from the people whose statuses they follow most closely.
For users who regularly check WhatsApp for updates from family, friends, colleagues or other important contacts, enabling notifications for selected people can help ensure they do not miss a status before it expires.
