The little things in life get me excited.
Three months ago, WhatsApp rolled out a new feature where it is possible to set a new or temporary "About" description that allows users to set momentary states-like "In a meeting" or "London"- that automatically disappear after a set time, ranging from hours up to a month.
Even better, it is possible to set a specific time or date you want the new WhatsApp About description to last for. (The main downside is it seems to remove the indefinite status feature, so be forewarned.)
Currently, I am using it to put the current city I am traveling in, for the people I already communicate with. If you have my number, we probably need to talk for some reason!
I am beyond announcing my current location to other people these days elsewhere, just mostly because, 1) safety and, 2) I don't really care.
However, there's has to be a way to tell the people that really matter -and need to know-without broadcasting it to the entire world.
Though WhatsApp actually lets users set a temporary status, I almost prefer this feature because it pops up underneath my name when I'm talking to folks one-on-one.
Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Go to Settings.
Step 2: Tap your Profile Picture.
Step 3: Select About.
Step 4: Choose a preferred Visibility setting, which are the same folks in your Privacy settings (Everyone, My contacts, My contacts except..., Nobody).
Step 5: Select desired Duration, which can range up to an hour in an advance or up to a month at a specific time.
Here are the available durations:
A screenshot showing all of the available durations. (Erica Ho / Map Happy)
Also, here is a quick video of it, and me misspelling Mexico City a few times. 😅
In my experience, Instagram is the fastest way to get rid of all your friends if you are traveling to new and cool places all the time. No need to rub it into people's faces.
