The update could organise themes into categories such as Featured, Nature, Live, Minimal and Doodle.
WhatsApp could automatically select bubble colours
Photo Credit: Pexels/Anton
WhatsApp is reportedly rolling out new chat theme categories to Android beta testers, bringing more ways to customise the look of conversations. The update is said to introduce five chat theme categories, including Nature, Live, Minimal, and Doodle, along with separate categories for wallpapers. The Live section may offer animated wallpapers with slow-moving backgrounds, while WhatsApp could automatically select a chat bubble colour based on the chosen theme and wallpaper. The feature is currently being tested with a limited group of Android beta users.
A new post by the feature tracker WABetaInfo claims WhatsApp is rolling out the new theme experience to some Android beta testers on version 2.26.37.6, bringing the theme structure previously introduced on iOS to the platform. The rollout is gradual, so not all beta testers may have the options yet. Some stable-version users may also receive the feature, although WhatsApp has not confirmed when it will reach everyone.
The chat theme picker is reportedly set to include a Featured section featuring selected designs from the other categories. According to the report, Nature could include outdoor scenes such as forests, mountains, deserts and coastal views, while Minimal may offer simpler backgrounds. The Doodle category is expected to feature the familiar doodle pattern, while Live could include wallpapers with slow-moving animations.
The update is also said to separate wallpapers from full chat themes, potentially allowing users to change the background without applying an entire theme. The wallpaper section could include the same categories as the chat themes, along with new Vibrant and Gradient options. Users may also be able to choose images from their gallery or create wallpapers using AI.
The Live category could appear in both the chat theme and wallpaper sections, with animated wallpapers reportedly using slow movements. A badge may also appear on their thumbnails to distinguish them from static options.
WhatsApp is also reportedly working on automatic bubble colour selection based on the chosen theme and wallpaper. The app could suggest a colour intended to keep messages readable, while users may still be able to change it manually.
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