WhatsApp is testing a new circular tab indicator for its Android app to make navigation look cleaner. The change appeared in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.41.7 as part of the upcoming bottom navigation bar redesign. Instead of a wide, pill-shaped highlight, the selected tab now gets a small green circle behind its icon.
The WhatsApp Android UI update aims to make it easier to see which section is currently open. The redesigned navigation bar has rounded corners and appears to float above the bottom edge of the screen. However, WhatsApp has not released this design to regular users or beta testers yet.
WhatsApp Changes the Bottom Navigation Bar
Earlier test versions showed a floating navigation bar instead of the old full-width design. WhatsApp also tested removing text labels and keeping only icons for Chats, Updates, Communities and Calls. The new circular tab indicator is another change the company is testing.
The green circle highlights the selected icon without taking up as much space as the previous pill shaped design. This could make the app look less crowded and help users find their current section more easily. The change may become more useful if WhatsApp removes text labels from the navigation bar.
The new design also looks closer to the navigation style used in WhatsApp for iOS. WhatsApp is testing the interface in both light and dark themes. However, the update changes only the app’s appearance and does not add new messaging features.
When Will the New Design Arrive?
WhatsApp has not announced a release date for the redesigned Android navigation bar. The company often tests new designs before deciding whether to make them available to everyone. The final version could still change before its public release.
Android users should download updates only from official sources such as Google Play. Apps that claim to unlock unreleased WhatsApp features may create privacy and security risks. For now, the circular tab indicator remains under development, and its public launch is uncertain.
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