WhatsApp has initiated a significant update to its user interface for Android devices. The messaging platform, which is owned by Meta, has announced the relocation of its four navigation tabs from the top of the screen to the bottom. This new design feature, previously available in the app’s beta version for several months, is now accessible to all users. The update aims to enhance the user experience by allowing one-handed navigation.
In a recent announcement shared on X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp highlighted the introduction of the new bottom navigation bar for Android. The update shows images of the previous layout, where the tabs—communities, chats, status, and calls—were positioned at the top of the chat list. With the change, users will find these tabs at the bottom with accompanying icons, and the arrangement might differ slightly.
android friends, we moved some things around to make it easier to access what you need, when you need it
meet your new navigation tools 🤝 closer to your thumbs and easy on the eyes pic.twitter.com/CqLvZf9meo
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) March 28, 2024
This update marks one of the most significant interface changes for WhatsApp on Android in recent times, bringing core navigation options closer to users’ thumbs—particularly beneficial for those navigating with one hand. However, users still need to access the top of the screen for search functionalities. Notably, the iOS version of WhatsApp already features the tabs positioned at the bottom, adding a fifth tab for settings.
While the new bottom navigation tabs are being rolled out after extensive testing, WhatsApp continues to explore additional features for the app’s future iterations. Among the anticipated updates is the potential to facilitate international payments through the app in India, utilizing the NPCI’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
Moreover, WhatsApp is also developing a range of AI-driven features. Plans are underway to allow users to generate stickers using text prompts powered by artificial intelligence. Recent discoveries also indicate the messaging service is working on AI-based image editing tools and a feature that enables users to query Meta AI through the search bar in WhatsApp. These functionalities are currently under development and have yet to launch for both stable and beta users.
