WhatsApp is gearing up to launch a major redesign for its top app bar on both Android and iOS platforms. The refreshed interface adheres to Google’s Material Design 3 language for a more modern and visually cohesive look across devices.
As reported by Wabetainfo, WhatsApp is in the process of redesigning its interface. The latest WhatsApp beta for Android, version 2.23.18.18, available on the Google Play Store, reveals several enhancements to the top app bar for a future app update. These enhancements include altering the background color, modifying the top bar navigation, and introducing chat filters.
Transition to Clean, Minimalist Design
The most apparent change is the top bar background shifting from WhatsApp’s iconic green to a clean white. Additionally, the WhatsApp logo pivots its color from white to green for better visibility.
Also Read: WhatsApp will soon let you schedule group calls
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign reflects WhatsApp’s goal to align with Material Design 3 principles. The update introduces bolder, simplified visuals and streamlined navigation for smooth cross-platform consistency.
Enhanced Navigation and Chat Management
WhatsApp is adding a new menu button next to the profile avatar on the top bar. This expands in-app navigation capabilities directly from the main interface.
Also Read: WhatsApp starts rolling out multi-account support to beta testers
Another incoming feature is chat filters that let users sort conversations into categories like unread chats, personal messages or business discussions. This makes navigating long chat histories simpler.
iOS Parity for Unified Experience
Notably, WhatsApp is also rolling out matching interface changes to iOS as well. Keeping both mobile apps in sync offers a seamless cross-platform messaging experience. By adopting Material Design 3, WhatsApp is ensuring visual and functional parity whether users are on Android or iOS devices.
Major Redesign in the Works
The redesigned app bar is still under development but provides a glimpse into the messaging giant’s UX and design priorities. Moving away from the older, less refined interface is a welcome change.
While no official launch timeline has been revealed yet, the sweeping updates are substantial enough to be part of a major WhatsApp release down the line. Material Design 3 is the latest version of Google’s open-source design system that uses dynamic color, typography, motion, and components to create a more personalized and accessible user experience. Material 3 is designed to be used across a variety of platforms, including Android and iOS.
With over 2 billion monthly active users, even minor tweaks have big implications. But the upcoming redesign leans into more pronounced simplicity and personalization, setting the stage for WhatsApp’s continued evolution.
