WhatsApp Web Beta Users Begin Receiving New Sidebar Interface

Fiona MacGregor

Apr-15-2024

WhatsApp Web Beta Users Begin Receiving New Sidebar Interface

WhatsApp users who frequently utilize the Web client may soon notice a significant update to their interface. Last year, WhatsApp announced plans to introduce a revamped design for its Web client, featuring a sidebar and dark mode. Recent reports suggest that this long-awaited update has begun rolling out to some beta users, indicating that a wider release may be imminent. Alongside this development, WhatsApp has also introduced Meta AI to select users in India, signaling a period of significant innovation for the messaging platform.

According to insights from the WhatsApp update tracker WABetaInfo, the new interface is gradually being distributed to users enrolled in the beta program for the Web client. However, not all beta testers have received the update yet, suggesting that WhatsApp may be conducting a limited test phase before a broader rollout. The redesigned interface reorganizes various sections of the platform within a sidebar, offering users a more streamlined and visually appealing navigation experience.

One of the key enhancements introduced with the new WhatsApp Web interface is the implementation of a dark mode option. This feature aims to improve readability for users who prefer a black-background-white-text format, particularly in low-light environments. The sidebar prominently displays icons for Chats, Communities, Status Updates, Channels, Archived Chats, Starred Messages, and Broadcasted messages, providing users with convenient access to essential features and conversations.

As beta testers begin to receive the updated interface, reports indicate that the feature could be available to all users within the coming weeks. Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has been actively developing and testing various features for the messaging platform. Recent sightings of the Meta AI chatbot on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Messenger suggest that Meta is exploring new ways to enhance user experiences across its platforms.

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