WhatsApp testing theme colours, new icons, and web voice video calls

WhatsApp appears to be preparing a set of changes that focus on personalisation and expanded functionality across platforms. Recent beta discoveries suggest that the app may soon introduce deeper visual customisation options along with improvements to the web version, pointing to a broader evolution in how users interact with the messaging service.

App customisation features spotted in WhatsApp beta

According to details revealed by WabetaInfo, WhatsApp’s Android beta version 2.26.6.1 includes early development of tools that allow users to modify the look and feel of the app. These additions include new theme colours, alternative app icons, and accent colour adjustments that could change visual elements across the interface.

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While still under development, the feature highlights WhatsApp’s attempt to offer greater control over design preferences. The beta reportedly includes 14 new icon choices, including monochrome options in colours such as blue, green, pink, orange, and purple, along with stylised variants like Aurora, Galaxy, Clay, and Neon.

Users may also get the option to revert to a classic icon design that was replaced in earlier updates. Alongside icons, WhatsApp is testing branding colour customisation, allowing users to select from up to 19 colour options. These selections could influence tabs, buttons, filters, and other interface components, offering a more personalised experience.

Reports suggest these visual enhancements could eventually be part of a rumoured premium subscription tier. However, the core messaging experience is expected to remain free, with any paid plan offering optional enhancements rather than essential functionality.

WhatsApp Web may soon support voice and video calls

Separately, WhatsApp Web may soon add voice and video calling features, which means these features could be directly accessed through browsers. The feature, currently rolling out in limited testing, adds dedicated call buttons within individual chats, allowing users to initiate conversations without installing a desktop application.

Early reports indicate support for screen sharing and continued end-to-end encryption, ensuring calls remain secure. The move is particularly significant for platforms such as Linux, where an official desktop client has been limited. Although the rollout timeline remains unclear, this upgrade could make WhatsApp Web a more complete alternative to the mobile and desktop apps.

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Stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma for all the latest updates coming to WhatsApp.