WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature to its iOS beta users, introducing a green dot to signal when a contact is online. This update, discovered by WABeta Info in version 26.26.10.72, mirrors the Android functionality but is limited to the Contact info screen. The dot appears in real-time and vanishes when the contact goes offline. While convenient, the feature’s restricted placement—only visible when viewing contact details—limits its utility compared to appearing in chat lists. Privacy settings still dictate visibility: users hiding last seen or online status will also hide the green dot.

The feature’s rollout reflects Meta’s ongoing efforts to enhance user interaction within WhatsApp. By tying the green dot to existing privacy controls, the company balances transparency with user control. Critics argue the feature’s utility could be greater if integrated into the main chat interface, where users spend most of their time. Currently, only beta testers on both Android and iOS can access it, suggesting a cautious approach to public release.

The green dot’s limited scope highlights challenges in feature adoption. Without broader visibility, its impact on user behavior remains unclear. WhatsApp has not announced a timeline for full release, leaving users to speculate whether this is a permanent update or a temporary beta experiment. For now, the feature serves as a nuanced addition to WhatsApp’s suite of status indicators, catering to users who value real-time online awareness without compromising privacy.