WhatsApp is developing a redesigned bottom navigation bar for Android, bringing a floating layout and rounded corners to its messaging app. The change draws inspiration from the iOS interface but retains Android's distinct design approach. According to WABetaInfo, the feature was seen in beta version 2.26.38.10
The redesigned navigation bar will appear separate from the main interface instead of extending across the bottom of the screen. Its rounded edges and floating appearance will give the navigation controls a distinct shape.
According to WABetaInfo, “ The feature is being developed for both light and dark themes. Users may notice the visual changes more clearly when they enable the light theme. The appearance in dark mode is less prominent. The update focuses on the app's navigation design rather than introducing a new messaging feature.” However, WhatsApp did not confirm whether the redesign will bring other interface changes.
The proposed navigation bar resembles the floating tab bar that WhatsApp introduced on iOS alongside Apple's Liquid Glass design language. The Android version is not expected to copy the iPhone interface completely. The iOS bar uses a translucent treatment, while the Android redesign appears to focus on rounded corners and a floating layout.
The redesigned navigation bar is not yet available to beta testers, despite appearing in the development process associated with Android beta version 2.26.38.10. The company may initially offer the feature to a limited group of beta users before expanding access through a future update.
Experts suggest that features discovered during development are not guaranteed to reach the stable version. WhatsApp could modify or delay the redesign before a wider rollout
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