WhatsApp announces 'unique' changes to messaging app in huge refresh for users

WhatsApp users can look forward to a total design overhaul of the messaging app in what will be the biggest change in years.

From a switch-up to the iconic green branding to a more sleek and minimalistic look to a whole host of impressive new features, the new updates aim to improve experience when using the world's number one chat app.

Bosses hope that a less cluttered and more streamlined look will allow users to navigate the app easier, without compromising on its main functionality - helping you keep in touch with people close to you.

The Mirror reports that one of the biggest changes set to be rolled out across the globe is the disappearance of the green band at the top of the app's home screen, which will be replaced with a white and minimalistic look.

"WhatsApp should feel fresh, fun and yours with a look that’s familiar and native to your device," WhatsApp explained. "The new design should enhance simplicity, be scalable and future proof."

There will still be hues of green throughout the app however, but this will be changed to a brighter and more vibrant shade than before. It's reported that 35 different shades were considered before coming to a decision on the winner.

And fans of dark mode on their apps will be pleased to know that this will soon be available on WhatsApp too. "We heard that people wanted a darker dark mode. We focused on higher contrast and deeper tones to reduce eye strain in low-light environments," WhatsApp added. "We’re making it one shade darker for improved visual appeal and legibility."

WhatsApp has also confirmed that it is updating its icons to a rounded, outlined style and, to match the new iconography. It has also refreshed its illustrations and added animation for what it calls a "more playful aesthetic".

The chat's iconic default background is also being changed up. "We learned most people used the doodle, but there was an opportunity to make this even more unique and more related to everyday conversations," said WhatsApp. "Our team reviewed every piece of artwork in the doodle and explored new options that were simple in style and better represented a diverse set of people and objects.

Finally, navigating the app will be made easier as the menu bar moves to the bottom of the screen. This is already the case in the iPhone version, but soon the Android app will match.

Sending photos and videos on iOS is now also easier with a new attachment layout. Instead of a full-screen menu, WhatsApp has added an expandable tray that allows you to see the features more clearly when sending media, polls, documents and more.

Users will also be able to find conversations quicker thanks to a new added filter, with the option to select between unread and group filters with just a tap to catch up on missed messages or your favourite group chats.

At the moment there isn't an exact date for a full launch but users can expect the changes to roll out soon.

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