In a significant move to enhance user communication, WhatsApp has officially revived its classic 'About' feature, giving it a complete makeover with new designs, emoji status options, and crucial timer controls. This update, rolled out on November 21, 2025, aims to make status updates more dynamic and interactive than ever before.
A Fresh Look for an Old Favorite
Before the era of end-to-end encryption, the original About section was a simple text field for sharing a brief personal update. WhatsApp is now bringing this feature back into the spotlight, but with a completely redesigned look and new functions. The updated About is positioned as a lightweight tool for broadcasting your current activity or communication preference without the need to send a direct message or update a full-fledged Status.
The most noticeable change is its new, prominent placement. The About text will now appear at the top of one-on-one chats and remain highly visible on user profiles. This strategic move makes it easier for your contacts to immediately see what you're up to and respond accordingly.
Interactive Features and Customizable Timer
One of the most exciting additions is the interactive element. You can now reply directly to someone's About update simply by tapping on it within the chat window. This transforms what was once a passive piece of information into a conversational starting point.
Another major upgrade is the introduction of a timer. While an About update will automatically disappear after 24 hours, users now have the power to customize its duration. You can adjust how long your About stays visible directly from the Settings menu under the 'Set About' option. This gives you greater control over your digital footprint.
The feature is designed for moments when your availability changes throughout the day—whether you're briefly busy, stepping out, or free to chat. You can express this state through a short phrase paired with an emoji, making your status more visual and expressive.
Privacy and Broader Update Context
As with all WhatsApp features, privacy remains a central pillar. The platform continues to offer robust privacy controls for the About section, allowing you to restrict its visibility to only your contacts or configure it according to your personal preference.
This rollout is part of a series of recent updates from the Meta-owned platform. Notably, WhatsApp also launched an official application for the Apple Watch, marking a first for iPhone users. This dedicated app, which requires an Apple Watch Series 4 or later with watchOS 10, enables users to receive call notifications, read messages, send voice recordings, use message reactions, and view chat history directly from their wrist, all while maintaining end-to-end encryption.
The revival and enhancement of the About feature signal WhatsApp's continued focus on creating more nuanced and context-aware ways for its billions of users to connect with each other.
