Meta Inc-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp is ripe for an update as a spate of new status related features have been loaded on to the service recently. We list a few of them here:

Improved Audience Selector
Not every status posted on WhatsApp may be appropriate for all contacts on a user list. WhatsApp’s updated audience selector gives users the flexibility to choose the desired audience for each status update. WhatsApp saves the selection, and it will be used as the default for the next status update.
Steps: WhatsApp -> Status -> Create a post -> Status tab (at the bottom left) -> Choose from the options – My contacts, my contacts except and only share with.

Voice Status
WhatsApp is adding voice status to Status. This allows users to record and share voice messages for up to 30 seconds as WhatsApp Status. Apart from this, WhatsApp also lets users share photos, texts, videos and GIFs as status.
Steps: WhatsApp -> Status -> Tap on the pencil icon at the bottom right -> Press and hold the microphone button to record voice status and post.

Status Reactions
Just like Message reactions, WhatsApp has added emoji reactions to status. This allows users to quickly respond to status updates from family and friends with one of the eight available emojis. The regular text, voice messages and sticker replies are still available.
Steps: WhatsApp -> View Status from someone -> Swipe up the reply button -> Select the emoji.

Status Profile Rings
WhatsApp¡¦s new Status profile ring appears on the profile icon of contacts to help users discover new status posted by them. The new ring will be visible in chat lists, group participants and contact info.

Steps: WhatsApp -> Chat list/group participant/contact info -> Look for a Green right around the contact¡¦s profile icon. Link Previews
WhatsApp¡¦s new Link preview feature for status makes it easier for users to preview a link posted in the status by someone. Links posted in status will automatically show a visual preview of the link content like how a link is shared in chats. This makes it easy for users to know what¡¦s in the link and what they are clicking on.