WhatsApp is preparing a visual redesign for its Android app, with a new floating navigation bar and a more prominent position for Meta AI.
The redesign is still in development, meaning the final interface could change before it reaches regular Android users.
New Floating Navigation Bar
The biggest visual change is the redesigned bottom navigation bar.
Instead of sitting directly against the bottom edge of the screen, the new bar appears as a separate floating element with rounded, oval-shaped corners. The design gives the navigation area a more modern appearance and creates clearer separation from the rest of the interface.
The new design has reportedly been spotted in WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.26.38.10.
WhatsApp Takes Cues From iPhone Design
The redesigned Android interface appears to borrow some visual ideas from WhatsApp’s newer iOS design.
The floating navigation treatment and rounded edges are particularly similar. However, the Android version does not appear to replicate the same level of transparency used in the iPhone version.
WhatsApp is also working on versions of the redesigned navigation bar for both light and dark themes.
Meta AI Could Get Its Own Place In The Navigation Bar
Another notable change involves Meta AI.
At present, Meta AI appears as a floating button within the WhatsApp interface. In the new design, Meta AI could become part of the main navigation bar.
This would make Meta AI considerably more visible and easier to access while using WhatsApp.
However, the placement is still being tested. Images from the development version reportedly show Meta AI appearing in different positions, suggesting that WhatsApp has not finalised the layout.
Core WhatsApp Sections Will Remain
The redesign is primarily focused on the appearance and organisation of the navigation area rather than changing how WhatsApp works.
Users will continue to have quick access to the app’s main sections, including Chats, Updates, Communities and Calls.
The floating design is intended to make the navigation area visually clearer while keeping frequently used sections within easy reach.
When Will The New Design Arrive?
Android users should not expect the redesigned interface to appear immediately.
The feature is still at an early development stage and has not yet received a confirmed public release date. The current design could also change considerably before WhatsApp begins a wider rollout.
WhatsApp typically tests major interface changes with a limited group of users before gradually making them available to more beta testers and eventually the stable version.
The redesign could therefore take several more weeks before it is ready for a broader release.
Summary
WhatsApp is testing a redesigned Android interface featuring a floating navigation bar with rounded edges and a more modern appearance. Meta AI could also move into the main navigation bar instead of remaining a floating button. The design has been spotted in an early beta build, but WhatsApp has not announced a public release date and the final interface could still change.
Image Source