WhatsApp Android Update to Feature New Contacts Tab and Floating Navigation Bar
WhatsApp is introducing a floating bottom bar and a dedicated Contacts tab in its latest Android beta builds, changing the layout used in stable releases.
The redesign replaces the previous Communities section on the bottom bar with a dedicated Contacts tab, Haber 7 reported. The update first appeared in version 2.26.40.3 and rolled out via the Google Play Store in build 2.26.45.2 for test users.
The interface update transitions from a flat edge-to-edge bar to a rounded floating navigation panel that shrinks into a compact pill shape when users scroll down. The floating element expands back to its full size when users scroll upward, incorporating a gradient blur effect along the bottom edge of the screen.
WhatsApp is rolling out a new Contacts tab on Android beta! WhatsApp is finally introducing a new tab to see online contacts from the bottom navigation bar on Android.https://t.co/KQb5KLQ7da pic.twitter.com/0LxAE4ORL6
The new Contacts section reorganizes how users reach individuals on the platform by placing a favorites area at the top for single-tap chats. Below the favorites, the app displays a general roster of connections with sorting options including alphabetical order, birthdays, and recent activity, according to Haber 7.
Activity sorting places online contacts at the top of the list with a green status indicator next to their names. Offline contacts appear below them according to their last seen visibility preferences.
The interface also integrates a Meta AI shortcut at the bottom of the Contacts tab with a persistent green status dot. Users can also send app invitations to non-users or direct Instagram followers to start chats on the platform.
New entries are handled via a floating action button in the bottom right corner, which opens fields for first name, last name, username, and telephone number while maintaining device address book synchronization.
WhatsApp Beta for Android Gets Dedicated Contacts Tab With New Features: Report pic.twitter.com/fpLKdsBtZy
WhatsApp is also developing a new option that will allow users to transmit photos and videos without any compression, ensuring media is delivered without loss of resolution alongside the existing Standard and HD choices. Discovered in Android beta version 2.26.44.12, this capability is expected to be offered to WhatsApp Plus subscribers. While Standard compresses data to save space and HD applies lower compression, neither preserves the exact original file, whereas the new Original option accessed from the media editor quality menu enables recipients to get files in their exact device-recorded state.
WABetaInfo reported that original quality media sharing will be restricted to WhatsApp Plus subscribers, which is priced at 41.99 TL per month in Turkey and currently provides custom themes, icons, stickers, and expanded chat pinning. WhatsApp has not released a statement regarding when the uncompressed media feature will officially launch as it remains under development and has not yet been rolled out to beta testers.
WhatsApp’s Android beta is testing a Contacts tab for favorites, contact sorting and online indicators. Communities remain accessible via a Chats filter; rollout is limited to select testers. #WhatsApphttps://t.co/YMu714MtKS pic.twitter.com/9nuJkE8ztb