WhatsApp Disappearing Status Coming to iPhone: How It Works & Key Features

WhatsApp is once again stepping up its privacy and personalization game. After rolling out disappearing status updates for Android beta testers earlier this year, the feature is now making its way to iPhone users. Spotted in the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS (version 25.23.10.78 via TestFlight), this update will let iPhone users set timers for their “About” profile status so it vanishes automatically after a chosen period.

How the Disappearing Status Works

Instead of keeping the same static profile update forever, iOS users will soon have the option to make their About section time-sensitive. Here’s the breakdown:

⏱️ Timer options: Choose from 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1 day, 1 week, or even set a custom duration up to one month.
📌 Where it shows: Your status will appear not only on your profile page but also in chat windows, conversation headers, and info screens, alternating with the last seen indicator.
🎭 Personal touch: Add emojis like ☕ for a quick break or 🧳 for travel, making updates more expressive and fun.

When the timer runs out, the status disappears automatically, keeping your profile fresh and relevant.

Privacy & Archive

One of the best parts is that privacy settings remain unchanged. You still decide who can view your status using WhatsApp’s existing controls. Plus, even after a status disappears from public view, it doesn’t vanish completely—expired statuses are stored privately in a personal archive, so you can look back at your past updates whenever you want.

Why It Matters

This feature is perfect for temporary updates:

Let people know you’re in a meeting 📅
Mark yourself as travelling ✈️
Show you’re on a short break ☕

No more outdated “At work” or “Busy” statuses lingering forever—your profile updates will now feel more dynamic and real-time.

When Will It Roll Out?

Currently, the disappearing status is in beta testing on iOS and is expected to roll out publicly in the coming weeks. Once available, it will be bundled with upcoming WhatsApp updates, giving iPhone users the same flexibility that Android testers already enjoy.