WhatsApp Android Redesign Brings an iPhone-Like Floating Navigation Bar
WhatsApp is testing a redesigned Android navigation experience featuring a floating, rounded bottom bar inspired by its iOS interface. The update also points to deeper integration of Meta AI within...
WhatsApp is working on a visual redesign for its Android app, with the latest development focused on the bottom navigation bar. The redesigned interface has been spotted in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.26.38.10 and introduces a floating bar with rounded corners, giving the app a more modern appearance.
The new design takes some inspiration from WhatsApp’s iPhone interface, particularly its floating tab bar. However, reports indicate that WhatsApp is not simply copying the iOS design. The Android version continues to follow Google’s design principles, with differences expected in areas such as transparency and overall styling. The change is currently more noticeable when the app uses its light theme.
One of the more interesting aspects is Meta AI. Early development screenshots suggest that Meta AI could become part of the main navigation bar rather than remaining primarily as a floating button. However, the appearance of Meta AI in different positions within the reported screenshots indicates that the layout is still being finalized.
WhatsApp moved its primary Android sections to the bottom of the screen several years ago to make navigation easier and more accessible. Meta has previously said that bottom navigation helps users reach important sections more naturally with their thumbs.
The redesigned navigation is still under development and has not received a confirmed public rollout date. Users should therefore expect the final interface to potentially change before release.
For marketers and businesses, the growing presence of Meta AI inside WhatsApp is particularly significant. As WhatsApp becomes more deeply integrated with AI tools, the platform could increasingly combine communication, discovery and AI-assisted experiences within the same environment.
Akash Takes: The visual redesign may look small, but the bigger story is Meta AI moving closer to WhatsApp’s core navigation. If this direction reaches the public version, AI could become a more visible part of everyday WhatsApp usage.
