WhatsApp tests ‘online contacts’ list on Android
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will show which of your contacts are currently online, bringing that information into a single place within the app. Instead of checking chats one by one, a new section in development will show which of your contacts are currently using the app.
The feature was spotted in Android beta version 2.26.13.3 by WABetaInfo. Currently, the only way to check someone’s availability is to open their chat and look for the ‘online’ tag. It’s something most users wouldn’t probably check actively but it can feel slow when you’re trying to reach someone quickly. This update shifts that into a single view, where active contacts are listed together.
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Currently, WhatsApp displays a green dot next to names within individual conversations or group headers, which count active participants. This new section changes that by offering a scrollable roster: online contacts appear first, followed by those recently active, sorted by “last seen” timestamps such as “5 minutes ago.” Users can glance through and start a conversation immediately, streamlining coordination in family groups or work threads.
With over two billion users globally and more than 500 million in India alone, WhatsApp faces pressure to refine its interface. Telegram has provided similar online lists for frequent contacts for years, often with customisable filters. Signal prioritises simplicity, limiting visibility to chat-specific dots. Facebook Messenger offers an “Active” tab but includes promotional clutter. WhatsApp’s implementation could offer a balance that is practical for high-volume users without altering the app’s familiar layout. Tests on iOS betas suggest a cross-platform rollout may follow.
The feature remains in early testing, with no firm release date. WhatsApp typically expands beta access gradually before a stable update, likely within one to two months. It requires no special permissions and should work on most Android devices. For frequent users relying on WhatsApp for real-time communication, such as professionals or large group admins, this could reduce daily friction significantly. Casual users may find less value, as green dots already suffice for basic needs.
