Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp is developing a new user interface for Android users. The upcoming UI will reportedly be similar to iOS’s UI, making it easier to switch from Android to iOS and vice versa. The update will bring a bottom navigation bar on the Android app. The latest development is spotted on WhatsApp beta for the Android 2.23.8.4 update.
According to WhatsApp development tracker WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is working on a new user interface with a redesigned bottom bar for Android users. The report suggests that the updated UI appears similar to WhatsApp for iOS. It will make it easier for users to switch from Android to iOS and vice versa. The new update will enable users to quickly access key features like chats, calls, communities, and status right from the bottom-placed navigation bar.
The update tracker website has also shared a screenshot of the upcoming UI. In this screenshot, the bottom-placed navigation bar is shown to have four options — Chats, Communities, Status, and Calls. Currently, WhatsApp for Android and iOS has different user interfaces. The new bottom navigation bar is spotted in the WhatsApp beta for the Android 2.23.8.4 update.
Notably, the company has not announced the feature. It is also unclear when the updated UI will roll out to beta users for testing. It is expected to be released in a future update of the app.
In addition, it has been reported that the instant messaging app is also working on the ability to allow Android users to secure specific chats using a fingerprint or passcode. The feature will let users lock and hide their private chats from others by locking specific conversation windows. Also, media files including photos and videos sent in a locked chat won’t be saved in the phone’s gallery automatically.