WhatsApp tests Liquid Glass redesign on iOS 26 chat screens

WhatsApp began testing a chat interface built around the Liquid Glass design framework to align its messaging window with Apple visual guidelines on iOS 26. The software deployment brings dynamic transparency across text entry bars and structural buttons inside conversation threads.

A translucent material now reflects and refracts underlying interface components directly behind the active chat bar. Furthermore, the action button that directs users to the latest message incorporates identical graphical transparency. The navigation bar also turns fully transparent within the conversation layout.

Visual modifications planned for chat windows

While Apple now requires developers to construct applications using the iOS 26 development kit, WhatsApp engineers retain the ability to keep visual features toggled off until the entire conversational window, navigation elements, and jump controls reach complete technical optimization across devices.

Testing remains underway. WhatsApp engineers plan a comprehensive rollout across the broader user registry once interface components meet production standards.

Operating system retirements scheduled for September 8, 2026

Support for mobile devices operating on Android 5.0 and Android 5.1 terminates officially on September 8, 2026. Account holders running these operating systems must migrate conversation histories to Google Drive using built-in settings before the cutoff. Discontinuing maintenance for legacy operating environments allows engineers to implement modern software architecture without accommodating outdated device restrictions.

Users who do not upgrade from Android 5.0 or Android 5.1 before the deadline lose application access permanently.

Encrypted storage options expanding to proprietary servers

Engineers are preparing a dedicated cloud backup service that stores conversation records directly on company infrastructure instead of third-party platforms. System specifications indicate the architecture includes the following security and storage parameters:

• A complimentary allocation of 2GB storage for direct server backups
• An optional expanded storage tier accommodating up to 50GB of chat history
• Mandatory encryption enforced through passkeys, custom passwords, or 64-digit security codes
• Continued integration with Google Drive for account holders preferring existing storage methods

Account holders configure encryption protocols manually before transferring records to the new off-site storage infrastructure. The passkey serves as the primary cryptographic method during system setup. Users retain the choice between automated server storage and external drive transfers.

Interface adjustments for channels and temporary statuses

WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.17.1 introduces a horizontal tray displaying up to 3 recent contacts directly at the top of the Chats tab. Users scroll through this row without opening the dedicated Updates tab or encountering advertising breaks between individual posts.

Broadcast channels will separate from primary message streams through dedicated filter lists inside the Chats tab.

Additionally, WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.17.10 introduces a “Reshared many times” marker over media circulated repeatedly through status updates. The indicator alerts recipients to content distributed across multiple secondary networks rather than originating from an original individual contact.