WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that could make it much easier for users to see which of their contacts are currently active on the platform. According to recent reports, the messaging app is testing an online status indicator similar to the green dot feature already available on several social media and workplace communication platforms.

If introduced widely, the feature would allow users to identify active contacts directly from the chat list without having to open individual conversations. The update is expected to improve real-time communication and help users quickly determine who is available for an immediate chat.

WhatsApp Exploring a More Visible Online Status Indicator

Meta-owned WhatsApp is continuously developing new tools aimed at improving user convenience and engagement. The latest feature under testing focuses on making online status visibility more accessible.

Currently, users need to open a chat window to check whether a contact is online. The proposed update could eliminate that extra step by displaying a small green indicator on the profile photo of contacts who are actively using WhatsApp.

This approach is similar to presence indicators found on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook Messenger, and several workplace collaboration apps. By making online activity visible from the main chat screen, WhatsApp could streamline the way users connect with friends, family members, and colleagues.

Green Dot Could Appear Directly on Profile Pictures

According to information shared by WhatsApp feature-tracking sources, the new online indicator has been spotted in a recent beta version of the Android application.

The feature is said to display a green dot overlay on the profile image of contacts who are currently active. This visual cue would provide immediate confirmation that a person is online, allowing users to decide whether to start a conversation without opening the chat thread.

The functionality is reportedly being tested in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.26.24.5. As with most beta features, there is no official timeline yet for a wider rollout to all users.

Privacy Controls Expected to Remain in Place

Privacy remains one of WhatsApp’s key priorities, and reports suggest that users will have control over the visibility of the new online indicator.

If the feature reaches the stable version of the app, users may be able to hide their online presence through privacy settings. This would provide flexibility for those who prefer not to broadcast their availability to contacts.

The reported screenshots of the feature indicate that the green dot closely resembles online indicators already used across other Meta-owned platforms. However, WhatsApp is expected to maintain privacy-focused customization options before making the feature publicly available.

Industry observers believe that the green dot could eventually replace or supplement the existing "online" text label currently displayed inside chat windows.

WhatsApp Also Testing Backup Management Tools

In addition to the online status indicator, WhatsApp is reportedly experimenting with another feature aimed at improving storage management.

The company is said to be developing a dedicated backup management section within the app. This feature would allow users to review, organize, and manage their existing chat backups more effectively.

With the new tool, users may gain the ability to identify duplicate backups, remove unnecessary files, and free up storage space directly from within WhatsApp. Such functionality could be particularly useful for users who maintain large chat histories and regularly back up their data.

What Users Can Expect Next

Both the online indicator and backup management tools are currently believed to be in the testing phase. WhatsApp frequently evaluates experimental features through beta releases before deciding whether to launch them globally.

While there is no official confirmation regarding the release date of either feature, their development highlights WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience through smarter communication tools and improved account management options.

If these updates are rolled out broadly, users could soon enjoy faster access to online status information and more control over their chat backups, making the platform even more convenient for daily communication.