WhatsApp Starts Testing 60 Second Status Updates QR Code Scanner Shortcut for UPI Payments

WhatsApp is testing two new features that will make it easier to share long videos as status updates and make fast peer-to-peer (P2P) payments through UPI. These new features were spotted by feature tracker WABetaInfo on the recent beta version of WhatsApp for Android. When these features roll out to all users on Table Channels, users will be able to share 60-second videos on their status and instantly scan any QR code to send money to other users or merchants.

The feature tracker spotted the ability to upload videos of up to 60 seconds on WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.7.6. The new beta version of the app is being released to those users who have signed up to get the beta version of the app. This effectively doubles support for everything from video uploads to status updates from the current 30-second limit. However, WABetaInfo revealed that users will also have to install the new beta version to access these longer status updates.

WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.7.3 released to beta testers shortly before the new update. It offers a new feature that will allow users to make UPI payments with a few taps. Instead of tapping the three-dot menu and selecting Payments > Payment QR Code Scan, beta testers can tap a separate QR code scanner shortcut above the main chat list. It is located on the left side of the camera and has search shortcuts on the top right corner of the screen.

The messaging service recently began turning off the ability to capture screenshots of users’ profile photos on new versions of the app for Android smartphones. While Pixel smartphones will capture a full black screenshot and other Android smartphones will refuse to take the screengrab citing the security policy of the device.

The recent beta version of WhatsApp for Android includes the ability to pin multiple chats to the top of the screen. This will allow users to quickly access conversations at the top of their chat list without having to search for more. The new QR code scanner, longer status updates, and expanded chat pinning may be available to all users on the stable channel with an app update in the coming weeks or months.