WhatsApp has updated its remarkably important design modifications to the way status updates (Status) are shown and made them a part of your Chats tab. This is an update that is mostly seen in February 2026 and is aimed at enhancing user engagement because the user does not need to change the tab to view the updates, as it will be more visible on the front page.
Status Rings on Profile Pictures
The most evident change is the Status Ring which has been placed around the profile picture of a contact in the main chat list.
Green/Blue Ring: This means that the contact has updated his or her status which you are yet to view.
Grey Ring: They have crossed your status, and yet you have already viewed it (within the 24-hour window).
Functionality: Tapping the picture image will start the status, and tapping the area holding the name or the message will start the chat conversation.
The New Top Status Row
Another feature being tested and rolled out by WhatsApp is a horizontal Status Row at the very top of the Chats tab that is similar toInstagram Stories or Facebook Messenger. This is a status where it shows circular previews of the status of your most active contacts. This enables you to have a quick look to any updates without scrolling the list of chat or switching tabs.
Can You Turn It Off?
At the present moment, the Chats tab does not have an official environment to fully disable these features. You are in control of your view, though, by silencing certain parts of your friends.
- Go to the Updates tab.
- Long-press the contact’s status.
- Select Mute.
Result: Their status will no longer appear as a ring or in the top row of your Chats tab.
1. Why is there a green ring around my friend’s photo in WhatsApp?
The green ring indicates that the contact has posted a new Status update (story) that you haven’t seen yet. Tapping the photo will play the status.
2. Can I remove the Status Row from the top of my chats?
No, this is a core design update and cannot be disabled via settings. However, muting individual contacts will hide their updates from this area.
3. Why did the status ring turn grey?
A grey ring means you have already viewed that person’s status, but it has not yet expired (the 24-hour timer is still running).
4. Is this feature available for everyone in 2026?
Yes, the Status Ring is available to almost all users globally on both Android and iOS. The horizontal Status Row is being rolled out in phases.
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