WhatsApp is working on a new set of chat customization options for iPhone users, including animated wallpapers that could give conversations a more dynamic look without making them distracting.
The feature is still under development, but references found in the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS suggest the company is preparing several new theme categories. The same customization system is also being developed for Android.
WhatsApp Is Preparing Three New Chat Theme Styles
According to references spotted in the latest TestFlight build, WhatsApp is working on three chat theme categories: Featured, Doodle, and Minimal.
Doodle themes are expected to use wallpapers inspired by WhatsApp’s familiar doodle pattern, while Minimal themes would offer simple white or black backgrounds based on whether the device is using light or dark mode.
The Featured category is the most interesting because it could introduce animated wallpapers. Rather than using fast-moving backgrounds, WhatsApp is reportedly keeping the animations slow and subtle so they add some movement without competing with the conversation itself.
That approach should also make the feature less distracting. Rapid animation could pull attention away from messages and may be uncomfortable for some users, particularly those with certain accessibility needs. Keeping the movement gradual allows WhatsApp to add visual variety without turning the chat background into the main attraction.
Chat Bubbles Could Adapt To The Wallpaper
WhatsApp is also reportedly planning to automatically adjust chat bubble colors based on the selected wallpaper. Users would choose a theme, and WhatsApp would determine the appropriate bubble colors rather than providing separate controls for customizing them.
That could make the new themes feel more like complete visual presets instead of simply swapping the background image. It also avoids forcing users to manually find text and bubble colors that remain readable against each wallpaper.
The feature is not currently available to beta testers and remains under development. With WhatsApp testing the same customization system across iOS and Android, however, the new themes could eventually make their way to beta releases before a wider rollout.
WhatsApp has not announced when the animated wallpapers or new chat themes will be released publicly, so the final design and available customization options could still change before launch.
(via WABetaInfo)
