Tech Desk 
Apr 12, 2026
WhatsApp has reportedly launched a new features, letting users get status updates from unsaved contacts that will make it simple to track updates recent interactions.
As per WABetaInfo report, status updates can now be visible to phone numbers involved in recent chats or calls. When users see the tilde (~) before a contact name and their phone number in the status interface, it indicates that the update is shared from a recent interaction with a phone number that is not saved in their contacts.
Users can get status updates from unknown contacts if they are saved in their address book. However, it is important to note that they must have recently messaged or called them to allow the app to deliver the status update.
When users receive a status update from unknown phone numbers, WhatsApp may display an introductory screen to clarify how this happens.
WABetaInfo reported that Meta-owned instant messaging platform's users still have full control over who can view their status at any time. When users receive a status update from someone they have not saved in their contact, it means that they have your number in their contact list.
This feature is available to some beta testers, and it is rolling out to more users over the coming days.
