WhatsApp is rolling out one new navigation experience for chats on iOSwith the aim of making some functions more accessible and improving the readability of the interface. The novelty was identified in version 26.39.75 of the iPhone app, available on the App Store. The update affects accounts that have already activated the Liquid Glass interface and is gradually reaching an increasing number of users.
The change is part of WhatsApp’s adaptation process to the Liquid Glass design, introduced with version 26.35.72. This style involves several interface elements, including the chat bar, navigation bar and message menu. On iOS 26, the navigation bar is transparent, while on iOS 27 it uses a solid background when content scrolls behind it. With some wallpapers, however, the contact name was difficult to read.
To solve the problem, WhatsApp has replaced the simple name display with a new button in the navigation bar. The item displays your profile photo, contact name, and online status or last seen time. The button follows the Liquid Glass design and adapts to the background of the conversation, keeping the text readable even when using certain images as the chat background.
The new features introduced by WhatsApp for iOS
Tapping the new button opens a pop-up menu at the top of the screen. This element also has a translucent background, through which the underlying conversation remains visible. The menu contains quick links to the most used functions, allowing you to reach certain sections without having to open the chat information screen every time. The options change based on the type of conversation.
Six shortcuts are available in individual chats: Search, Contact Info, Media, Links & Documents, Chat Theme, Ephemeral Messages, and Mute. In group conversations the same options are present, with the addition of the possibility of adding new members. Chats with business accounts also have a similar menu, adapted to the needs of this type of conversation.
The distribution of the new feature is gradual and involves only a portion of users, including some beta testers who use the most recent versions available via TestFlight. Install the update therefore it does not guarantee that the new interface is already active.
