WhatsApp has started testing a new feature that shows a green dot on a contact’s profile picture when they are online. The update is currently available in the latest WhatsApp beta version for Android and is expected to reach more users in the coming weeks.
The green dot appears in the chat info screen and makes it easier to check if someone is currently active on the app. This replaces the older text label that simply showed “online” and gives users a clearer visual indication at a glance.
How the New Feature Works
When you open a chat and tap on the contact’s name or profile picture, you will now see a small green dot on their profile photo if they are online. The feature works both ways, others can also see your green dot depending on your privacy settings.
The green dot does not appear if a user has turned off their “Last seen and online” visibility. In such cases, they also cannot see the green dot on other people’s profiles. This means the feature follows the same privacy rules that already exist in WhatsApp.
Why WhatsApp Introduced the Green Dot
Many users frequently check if someone is online before sending a message. The older text-based status was not always easy to notice, especially when going through multiple chats quickly. The green dot solves this by making the information more visible.
In India, where WhatsApp is used extensively for both personal and work communication, this change can make coordination slightly faster. Students, families, and small business owners often rely on knowing whether someone is available before reaching out.
At the same time, the feature can also create pressure to reply immediately once others know you are online. Some users may find this uncomfortable and may choose to hide their online status completely.
Also Read: WhatsApp New Update: Share Recent Group Chat History with New Members
Privacy Remains in User Control
WhatsApp has not changed how privacy works with this update. Users can still decide who can see their last seen and online status through the app’s existing privacy settings. The green dot simply makes the information easier to notice.
This approach is similar to what Instagram and Facebook already use. By keeping the same privacy controls, WhatsApp has avoided adding new settings that could confuse users.
Current Rollout Status
The feature is currently rolling out through the WhatsApp beta program on Android. It is available in version 2.26.24.5 and is being tested by a limited number of users. A wider release to all Android users is expected soon, though there is no confirmed timeline for iOS yet.
Once the update reaches the stable version, users will automatically see the green dot if their contacts have their online status visible.
What This Means for Indian Users
For many people in India, this small change can improve daily use of WhatsApp. Quick coordination in family groups, office chats, and business conversations can become slightly easier. However, users who prefer more privacy may want to review their settings once the feature becomes widely available.
Overall, the update is a minor but useful improvement in how WhatsApp displays online status. It does not add major new functionality but makes an existing feature more noticeable and convenient for regular users.
Also Read: WhatsApp iPhone Update 26.7.10.74 Now in Testing – Big Changes Coming Soon?
