WhatsApp is testing a redesigned Android interface that could change how users navigate the app. The update brings a refreshed bottom navigation bar and may give Meta AI a more permanent place in the main interface. The changes were spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.38.10.
WhatsApp Navigation Bar Gets a New Look
The biggest change in WhatsApp is the redesigned navigation bar. Instead of blending into the bottom of the screen, the new bar uses a floating, rounded design with an oval or pill shaped appearance. WhatsApp also appears to be testing more transparency, creating a look that is closer to the navigation style seen on iOS. However, the Android version does not appear to use the same level of transparency.
The new WhatsApp design is being tested in both light and dark themes. A dark mode version is also under development, giving users a more consistent appearance when using WhatsApp at night.
The redesign follows WhatsApp’s earlier effort to improve Android navigation. Meta previously explained that its Android interface was redesigned to make navigation easier and more natural for users.
WhatsApp Could Move Meta AI Into the Main Navigation
Another important change involves Meta AI. WhatsApp currently places Meta AI in a floating button above the compose button. With the new design, WhatsApp appears to be testing Meta AI as part of the bottom navigation area instead.
This could make Meta AI easier to access while using WhatsApp. However, the current beta design shows the Meta AI icon in more than one position. That suggests WhatsApp is still experimenting with the layout and has not finalized where the feature will appear.
The WhatsApp redesign is still in development, so the final interface could change before release. There is also no confirmed public release date. Development may continue for several weeks before WhatsApp considers a wider rollout.
For now, the test shows that WhatsApp is exploring a more modern Android navigation experience while making Meta AI more visible within the app. Users will need to wait for future WhatsApp updates to see whether this design reaches the stable version.
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