The recent move of whatsapp shows how social apps must quickly react to feedback of users if they make a false step in bringing new feature.
In mid-February, WhatsApp removed the feature of the Status and changed it to Snapchat Stories clone. It took a shot at becoming more than just an instant messaging application. WhatsApp had changed the text status for pictures as status that lasted for 24 hours.
WhatsApp started out as a way for people to let their friends know what they are currently doing, like is he/she at work or available. Instant messaging,was added later, which is now the app's main function.
According to a report, the company has faced a huge set back by the consumers. Due to this the text-only status will now be back. But the new stories-like feature will also continue alongside.
The feature had not generated much excitement among the users . The new Snapchat-style stories haven’t received much appreciation from users. This is because WhatsApp sticks the feature in a separate tab. Instead it should be at the top of the list of active threads.
The problem started when a normal average consumer couldn't find the conventional text status.
Talking about the new WhatsApp Status and Messenger Day, they both provide an obvious opportunity for these chat apps to monetize. This is done by injecting ads between friends’ slideshows. They also could limit Snapchat’s growth. They can prepare the products for a future more focused around visual communication. The features are more designed to fulfill Facebook’s desires than users, as it is believed by some. Rapid responses to feedback could help these utilities to keep their audiences.
But it's also thing that the Facebook-owned app is expanding the amount of features it has. Take the example of Instagram, another Facebook subsidiary, has been doing over the years.
According to source, WhatsApp is planning to bring back the status feature in a week. Users can set a text Status, by opening the About section of their profile. They can view other people’s status by opening their contact. Last week, text Statuses reappeared in the Android Beta version of WhatsApp.
WhatsApp provided this statement:
“We heard from our users that people missed the ability to set a persistent text-only update in their profile. So now this feature is integrated into the ‘About’ section in profile settings. Now, the update will appear next to profile names. It can be seen anytime you view contacts. Like when creating a new chat or looking at Group info. At the same time, we’re continuing to build on the new Status feature. This feature gives people fun and engaging ways to share photos, videos and GIFs with their friends and family throughout their day.”
