- WhatsApp beta users on Android will start seeing a new interface on the app.
- This is a test that adds a navigation bar to the bottom of the app.
- The new interface is currently available to select WhatsApp beta testers on Android.
WhatsApp is testing a new interface for its Android app where it is adding a new navigation tab. This would be a big redesign in terms of the user interface on the app. The change is also similar to WhatsApp on iOS but it’s only in testing right now with no confirmation on whether it will actually get a stable release.
The new test has been rolled out in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.8.4. WhatsApp beta testers on Android can head to the Google Play Store and download this update to get the new interface. But not all beta testers will get the new interface and some might have to wait for a wider rollout. Those interested can also apply for the WhatsApp beta program to try out unreleased features.
WhatsApp Android new interface test
The new interface essentially brings a new navigation bar at the bottom of the screen. According to screenshots shared by WABetaInfo, we can see the navigation bar housing chats, communities, status and calls. This also eliminates the existing chats, status and calls section that currently sit on top of the app. It also makes for a cleaner and more convenient way to access your chats, communities, status updates and calls.
With a bottom navigation bar, the top section of WhatsApp now only has the camera icon, search tool, and three-dot menu button. This interface would be somewhat similar to WhatsApp on iOS where it has the chats, status, communities, calls and settings on the bottom bar of the screen. While it may not seem like a major revamp, it would be refreshing considering how rare WhatsApp redesigns its user interface.
As for the update release, there is no word on when and if WhatsApp plans to do so. But considering it’s reached the beta stage we might just see the new WhatsApp interface on Android getting a stable release soon.
