Hyderabadis have mixed feelings about ‘last seen’ feature of WhatsApp

HYDERABAD: Residents of the city gave a mixed response to WhatsApp’s new ‘last seen’ feature that allows selected contacts to view the timing of the same. While many said that the feature reassures them about the well-being of their loved ones, others said that it was creating differences among people.

“My friend had to keep his ‘last seen’ hidden as he manages many people at work and replying to all is difficult. But he needs care and attention. This way, by allowing only me to see it assures me that he is okay,” said Deepali Shah, who works for an MNC.

However, others said it was bringing in more trust issues and invading one’s privacy. “There are people who simply message during working hours and ask useless questions. It is better to not let them know when I was active on WhatsApp as they later complain about me ignoring them. This only creates divide and brings hatred,” said Divya Reddy, a teacher at a private school.

A 17-year-old said that her parents monitor her phone usage through the feature. “If I use the phone after 11 pm, my parents disconnect the Wi-Fi. Hiding ‘last seen’ is the best option,” said Sugandha Anand, a student.

“Selecting people from all your contacts and allowing them to view your ‘last seen’ is for teenagers and those who lie. I do not like to share mine as I want my own space and privacy. People don’t understand how busy a person can be,” said Alok Dixit, who works for an MNC.