WhatsApp has launched Status, a new feature seemingly inspired by Snapchat.

Snappy time

Status lets you add text, drawings, and emoji to your photos, videos and GiFs and share with your contacts. Status updates disappear within 24 hours.

The feature works in a similar way to Snapchat Stories and Instagram Stories, however Status updates are encrypted end-to-end, like all WhatsApp messages.

Pay it forward

Status has been in beta for months, and is now getting a wider roll out on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone. The launch coincides with the app's eighth birthday.

While the update isn't the most groundbreaking, ephemeral content has worked a treat for Snapchat and Instagram.

If it takes off, expect to see an advertising offering in the works for brands wanting to reach WhatApp's 1.2 billion global users.