WhatsApp Integrates New Liquid Glass Design for iOS Users

WhatsApp has officially introduced its new Liquid Glass design language to the iOS platform, specifically targeting the messaging interface. With the release of the WhatsApp beta version 26.35.10.16 via TestFlight, the company has updated both the reaction tray and the context menu to feature a modern, transparent aesthetic. This development represents a significant shift for the Meta-owned platform as it prepares for the upcoming iOS 27 update, ensuring that the application aligns with Apple’s current design standards. By prioritizing visual fluidity and semi-transparency, WhatsApp aims to offer a more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing experience for its global user base.
- WhatsApp has integrated the Liquid Glass design into the reaction tray and context menu for iOS beta users.
- The new interface components feature a semi-transparent structure that enhances the visibility of background chat content.
- The update is currently undergoing testing through the TestFlight platform for select beta participants.
- These visual changes provide a modern interface update while maintaining existing functional workflows for users.
Message Menu Components are Being Renewed with Liquid Glass
Following the successful implementation of the Liquid Glass design in the chat bar, WhatsApp is extending this visual overhaul to its message menu components. Users interacting with the context menu or the reaction tray will notice a departure from previous heavy blur effects. Instead, the interface now utilizes a sophisticated, semi-transparent layer that reflects and refracts light from the underlying chat background. This design choice ensures that the context remains visible even while these menus are actively displayed, fostering a deeper sense of immersion within the application.

Reaction Tray Functionality is Remaining Consistent
Despite the significant visual transformation, the underlying functionality of the reaction tray remains unchanged. WhatsApp has prioritized a user-centric approach, ensuring that the placement and interaction patterns of the reaction tray stay consistent with previous versions. Users can continue to provide emoji reactions without needing to adapt to new navigational habits. Furthermore, the design team has ensured that these updates are fully compatible with both light and dark mode settings, allowing for a seamless integration with the user’s preferred device appearance.
Liquid Glass Enhancements are Continuing Across the App
The expansion of the Liquid Glass language is not limited to the chat screen. Developers are currently refining other interface elements, including the drawing editor and video player, to ensure a unified visual experience. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to modernize the application’s entire visual architecture ahead of the major iOS 27 release. Beta testers are receiving these updates incrementally, allowing the development team to monitor performance and gather essential user feedback.
Rollout Process is Proceeding Gradually
Currently, these interface enhancements are limited to a select group of beta testers. WhatsApp has not yet announced a definitive timeline for the public rollout of the Liquid Glass design. The development team is maintaining a cautious approach, focusing on performance optimization and stability before expanding access to the wider public. Users who have not yet received these updates are encouraged to monitor future beta releases for further improvements.
How do you feel about the new Liquid Glass design language being introduced by WhatsApp? We would love to hear your thoughts on this transparency-focused change to the iOS interface, so please share your feedback and expectations in the comments section below.
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