WhatsApp, known worldwide as the leading instant messaging service, has been surrounded by speculation for the past several months that Meta is planning to revamp its Android app interface, introducing a new swipeable navigation bar at the bottom. WhatsApp has now confirmed that this update will be rolled out soon, if it hasn't reached your device already.
WABetaInfo, a website that tracks updates to the instant messaging application, had earlier reported that the developers are moving the Chats, Calls, Communities, and Status tabs to the bottom of the interface, making it more similar to the iOS version. According to beta testers, this change could be an attempt by WhatsApp to comply with Google's updated Material Design rules.
android friends, we moved some things around to make it easier to access what you need, when you need it
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) March 28, 2024
meet your new navigation tools 🤝 closer to your thumbs and easy on the eyes pic.twitter.com/CqLvZf9meo
WhatsApp announced an update on Platform X, saying that the bottom bar has been strategically placed closer to your thumb for easier access. This design change could facilitate seamless navigation between tabs, eliminating the need to move your thumb to the top of the device when toggling between chats, calls, and other screen options.
Apart from updating its user interface, it seems that WhatsApp is launching a new feature called "Suggested Contacts" in the Chats tab. This feature is designed to recommend new people for you to interact with. As per a report by WABetaInfo, this new feature was spotted in WhatsApp beta version 2.24.7.23 for Android.