WhatsApp Beta Tests Liquid Glass for Reactions and Menus
WhatsApp's beta version on iOS is previewing a visual overhaul called "Liquid Glass," affecting message reactions and context menus. This redesign aims for a more consistent user interface across the app.
WhatsApp is continuing to refine its "Liquid Glass" redesign on iOS, with recent beta testing revealing updates to message reactions and context menus. These changes, observed in the latest TestFlight build, aim to bring a more cohesive visual experience to the popular messaging application.
Last year, Meta began introducing elements of the Liquid Glass design, notably on the app's bottom navigation bar and parts of the Chats tab interface following the release of iOS 16. However, this initial rollout has been very limited, leaving many users with the older interface. In parallel, Meta has continued to experiment with further Liquid Glass refinements in beta versions.
Recent TestFlight builds have showcased the Liquid Glass aesthetic being applied to the in-chat interface and the voice message player. Now, reports indicate that Meta is extending this redesign to two more core chat features: message reactions and context menus.
Context Menus and Reaction Tray Updates
While these interface changes are not yet accessible to the general beta testers, internal activation has revealed the updated appearance. The reaction tray, previously more solid and opaque, is expected to adopt a more fluid and transparent look, consistent with the Liquid Glass design language. Similarly, context menus, which have seen some Liquid Glass treatment in the chat list view, are also slated for an update to align visually with other refreshed parts of the app. This move seeks to resolve the current visual inconsistencies users might notice.
The Liquid Glass design concept, as applied by Meta across its applications, emphasizes fluidity, transparency, and subtle animations to create a more dynamic and engaging user interface. It moves away from flatter, more static designs towards a look that feels more alive and responsive. For WhatsApp, this means elements like pop-up menus and reaction buttons will appear to interact with the user in a more visually appealing way, enhancing the overall user experience without disrupting core functionality.
The integration of these visual updates is part of a broader strategy by Meta to modernize its app interfaces and maintain a consistent brand aesthetic across its family of applications, which includes Facebook and Instagram. By applying the Liquid Glass design to key interaction points like message reactions, WhatsApp aims to improve user engagement and satisfaction.
Currently, there is no confirmed release date for when these changes will officially roll out to the App Store version of WhatsApp. However, the persistent appearance of Liquid Glass elements in successive beta builds strongly suggests that Meta is committed to this redesign. This continued development indicates that a wider release may be on the horizon, bringing a refreshed look to millions of users worldwide.