Reputable sources have reported that WhatsApp is rolling out the ability to hide online status to some beta testers with the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.22.20.9 update.
This update will look at replacing the ‘Last seen’ tab with ‘Last seen and online’ tab in the Privacy section of your Account settings. WhatsApp currently offers users an option to alter their Last Seen status. This update will allow users to choose who can view their Last Seen status as well as who can see when they are online.
This update is seemingly being rolled out gradually for select beta testers. There is no word as yet to when it plans to make the rollout wider.
To access this option, WhatsApp beta users will have to go to Settings > Account > Privacy > Last seen and online. Users will then receive the option to show their online status to ‘Everyone’ or keep it the same as their Last Seen status. For example, you will be able to show your online status to everyone while hiding your Last Seen status.
