WhatsApp Chat Bar Redesign for Android: What Is Changing and When
The WhatsApp Android chat bar redesign is trending in Pakistan after WABetaInfo reported on 17 October 2026 that WhatsApp is working on a new look for the bar where you type messages. The change was found in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.41.11. WhatsApp is testing two different designs, and neither is available to users yet, not even to beta testers. Here is what is changing and when you might see it.
PK Portals is an independent information site and is not linked to WhatsApp or Meta. The details below are based on beta reports and can change before the final release.
Quick facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature | Redesigned chat bar (message box) |
| Platform | WhatsApp for Android |
| Found in | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.41.11 |
| Reported | 17 October 2026, by WABetaInfo |
| Designs in testing | Two |
| Status | Under development, not yet available to beta testers |
| Release date | Not announced |
What is changing in the WhatsApp chat bar
Both new designs share two main changes:
- The text box moves to the top of the chat bar, above the emoji button, so the typing area gets more space.
- The send button moves inside the bar. It keeps its round shape but no longer sits outside the message box.
Design 1 vs Design 2
| Design | Layout | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Design 1 | Emoji button on the right; attachment and camera buttons on the left next to the send button | Closer to the current layout, so it will feel familiar |
| Design 2 | Emoji, attachment and camera buttons all on the left; only the send button on the right | Cleaner, more minimal look |
WhatsApp has not said which design it will choose. It may also change both designs again before release.
The bottom navigation bar is changing too
This is part of a bigger redesign of WhatsApp for Android. In an earlier beta (2.26.41.7), WhatsApp was also seen testing a new bottom navigation bar that:
- Floats above the screen with rounded corners.
- Shows icons without text labels.
- Uses a circle instead of a pill shape to show which tab is selected.
When will the new chat bar come to Pakistan?
There is no release date yet. WhatsApp usually tests new designs with a small group of beta users first, then rolls them out slowly to everyone over a few weeks. Users in Pakistan normally get these design changes at the same time as other countries. Keep WhatsApp updated from the Google Play Store and the new chat bar will appear on its own when it reaches your account.
How to get new WhatsApp features first
- Open the Google Play Store and search for WhatsApp Messenger.
- Scroll down to the section about joining the beta and tap Join, if places are available.
- Wait a few minutes, then update WhatsApp from the Play Store to get the beta version.
- Turn on auto-update for WhatsApp so you get every new build.
Safety tip: do not install modified apps such as GB WhatsApp or WhatsApp Plus to get new features early. These apps are not official, can put your chats and personal data at risk, and WhatsApp can ban accounts that use them.
Related guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WhatsApp Android chat bar redesign?
It is a new design for the message box in WhatsApp for Android. The text box moves above the emoji button and the send button moves inside the bar.
Which WhatsApp version has the new chat bar?
It was found in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.41.11, but it is still being developed and is not turned on for testers yet.
When will I get the new WhatsApp chat bar?
WhatsApp has not announced a date. It will first reach some beta testers and then roll out to all users gradually.
Is the new chat bar coming to iPhone?
The current reports are about WhatsApp for Android only.
Can I enable the new chat bar myself?
No. WhatsApp turns new designs on from its servers. Joining the beta only gives you a better chance of getting it early.
Last updated: 17 October 2026. Details are from beta builds and may change.
