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New Delhi: WhatsApp is preparing a noticeable interface change that could alter how millions interact with the app daily. Reported by WABetaInfo, it notes that the company is developing a redesigned top app bar that has the company’s official logo in the place of the long-time text title. This is one of the most conspicuous design changes in years, since the current layout has not changed significantly since 2013.

The redesign is not merely cosmetic. It is an indication of a wider attempt by WhatsApp to restructure the interface with the addition of new capabilities, such as status integration and quicker messaging apps. The update is still under development, but early beta insights suggest the company is aiming for a cleaner, more modern navigation experience.

WhatsApp plans a cleaner top bar with logo branding

The redesign to be done will replace the name of the app with the WhatsApp logo in the top bar. This move is expected to free up space for additional features, which may include fast access to status updates or other shortcuts.

The shift is consistent with the current trends in app design, as minimal branding is used instead of text-heavy headers. While subtle, it could make the interface feel less cluttered and more visually consistent across devices.

Notification bubbles aim to speed up conversations

WhatsApp is also working on notification bubbles, which is an Android feature. These bubbles enable the chats to be shown as floating icons on the screen, and the user can respond and open messages without having to leave the app they are currently using.

The feature is more or less the same as other apps that provide the bubble system of Android. A floating icon with the profile picture of the contact pops up when a message is received. A single tap on it brings about a small chat box, where it is possible to reply in a short time without the need to open the WhatsApp application.

The feature depends on Android version support

Android 10 officially supports notification bubbles, although it works better with Android 11 and later releases. WhatsApp should focus more on new systems so that the performance is smoother.

The feature will also be under the control of the users. Bubbles may be turned off in the system settings so that those who are distracted by floating chats can customise the experience.

Multitasking gets a major boost

Bubbles are added to enhance multitasking. As an illustration, users can react to messages immediately by watching videos or using social media without the need to switch applications.

This will minimise interruptions and maintain real-time conversation. It can be seen as a wider WhatsApp move to faster and smoother communication.

Channels may soon support 24-hour status updates

In another significant update, WhatsApp is working on status updates of channels. In a report by WABetaInfo, admins will soon be able to post temporary posts which will vanish after a day, like ordinary status updates.

This will enable admins to post brief announcements, behind-the-scenes content, or brief updates without filling the main channel feed. This is a more flexible option since currently, channel posts have the ability to stay longer than usual.

Feature expanding across Android and iOS

The channel status feature is in testing on Android, as well as on iOS, with builds served through TestFlight. WhatsApp is also improving the process of creating and managing these updates straight in the channel interface.

The type of media that admins can use, including images, videos, voice notes, and potential music or AI-generated content, will depend on the availability of such media in the region.

Rollout expected after beta testing

All these are still in development, such as the redesigned top bar, notification bubbles, and channel status updates. WhatsApp will launch them in phases, beginning with beta testers and then launching them to a broader audience.

If implemented successfully, these updates could significantly reshape how users navigate and interact with WhatsApp, making the app faster, more dynamic, and better suited for multitasking.