WhatsApp beta introduces a modern chat bubble design for Android and tests WhatsApp Plus, a potential premium plan with customization features.
WhatsApp is preparing a fresh visual upgrade for Android users while also experimenting with a potential premium subscription tier called WhatsApp Plus. The updates aim to modernize the messaging experience and offer advanced customization features for power users.
New Chat Bubble Design Rolling Out for Android
The latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.10.2, released through the Google Play Beta Program, introduces a redesigned chat bubble layout. The update brings softer and more rounded message bubbles, giving conversations a cleaner and more modern appearance.
Currently, the feature is available to select beta testers and is expected to gradually reach more users in the coming days via the Google Play Store.
What’s Different in the New Message Bubbles?
Previously, WhatsApp chat bubbles featured sharper, angular corners that made the interface appear slightly blocky. The latest update replaces this design with smoother, pill-shaped bubbles that create a more visually appealing chat environment.
The refreshed design applies consistently across various message types, including:
- Text messages
- Images and media
- Polls
- Event messages
This uniform design aims to deliver a softer and more contemporary look across conversations.
Improved User Experience
The updated chat bubbles enhance the overall messaging experience by making conversations easier to read and navigate. Rounded edges provide a cleaner interface, while multimedia messages stand out more naturally within chats. The design change is part of WhatsApp’s broader effort to modernize its interface and improve visual clarity for users.
WhatsApp Testing “WhatsApp Plus” Premium Plan
In addition to interface updates, WhatsApp is reportedly developing an optional subscription service called WhatsApp Plus. The platform, owned by Meta Platforms, has been free since its launch in 2009, but it may soon introduce paid features for users seeking advanced customization.
The subscription plan is still in development for both Android and iOS, according to reports from WABetaInfo.
Importantly, WhatsApp’s core services—including messaging, voice calls, video calls, and media sharing—will remain free for all users. The premium plan will focus mainly on optional enhancements and convenience features.
Potential Features of WhatsApp Plus
The proposed WhatsApp Plus subscription may include several customization and productivity upgrades, such as:
- Expanded chat pinning: Increase pinned chats from 3 to up to 20
- App customization: Choose from 14 different app icons
- Accent color options: Select from 19 color themes affecting tabs and buttons
- Exclusive stickers for subscribers
- Custom ringtones for WhatsApp calls
- Enhanced reactions and conversation effects
WhatsApp may also add additional features over time based on user feedback.
Waitlist Feature Appears in Beta
A waitlist option for WhatsApp Plus has reportedly appeared in WhatsApp beta version 2.26.9.6. Some users may see a “Join Waitlist” banner within the settings page or sticker keyboard.
Joining the waitlist does not automatically subscribe users to the service but ensures they are notified when the premium plan becomes available. Currently, the feature is visible only to a limited number of beta testers, with a broader rollout expected soon.
Pricing Yet to Be Announced
WhatsApp has not yet revealed pricing details for the WhatsApp Plus subscription. Since the feature is still under development, it may appear in future updates if testing proves successful.
With these changes, WhatsApp continues to evolve its platform—offering a refreshed visual design while exploring premium features that could redefine the messaging experience for advanced users.
Read more: How AI Can Simplify Data Challenges and Drive Business Results
