The feature is currently available to some users running WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.26.24.5. The green indicator appears within the chat information screen whenever a contact is online.
This enhancement allows users to quickly see who is available for immediate communication without opening a conversation or looking for the traditional "Online" status text. The goal is to make the messaging experience faster and more intuitive.
Previously, WhatsApp displayed a user's online status as text beneath their profile picture. With this update, the platform is gradually replacing that text with a simple green dot directly on the profile image, making active users easier to spot at a glance.
Privacy remains a priority. The green dot will only be visible according to each user's privacy settings. Contacts who choose to hide their online status or last seen information will not display the indicator, ensuring that WhatsApp continues to respect individual privacy preferences.
In addition, WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new "Contact Center" section that will provide a dedicated list of users who are currently online or were recently active. The section is expected to include sorting options based on name and activity status, with the new green indicator playing a key role in the experience.
For now, the feature is limited to a small group of Android beta testers, with a wider rollout expected in the coming weeks. WhatsApp has not yet announced an official release date for all users.