Popular messaging service WhatsApp has received a major update in design and now sports a complete Material Design user interface, as it moves ahead in par with Google’s latest guidelines. The new update (build version 2.12.84) is now available to all on Google Play Store. Last month, WhatsApp had released build version 2.12.38 with Material Design for Android smartphones but at the time it was only available on the company’s website.
The new update only brings in several design changes to the user interface but no new additions in terms of functionality have been made.
The new update only brings in several design changes to the user interface but no new additions in terms of functionality have been made.
Firstly, the revamped Material Design interface of WhatsApp brings in a lighter shade of green which you will spot at first sight. The top bar which includes Calls, Chats and Contacts tabs has been enlarged compared to the previous build. Icons have been reduced in size which gives it a clean and simple look.
When it comes to the Chat log, if you click on your friend’s profile picture, the image will enlarge and you will see quick options such as message, call and their detailed profile. Profile pictures now are in a circular frame unlike the previous squarish one. Your chat conversation will now appear as a speech bubble and the microphone feature gets a separate icon. Previously, when users pressed ‘enter’ to send their messages, they could accidentally click on the microphone option. With the new update, this wouldn’t be a problem any more.
When it comes to the Chat log, if you click on your friend’s profile picture, the image will enlarge and you will see quick options such as message, call and their detailed profile. Profile pictures now are in a circular frame unlike the previous squarish one. Your chat conversation will now appear as a speech bubble and the microphone feature gets a separate icon. Previously, when users pressed ‘enter’ to send their messages, they could accidentally click on the microphone option. With the new update, this wouldn’t be a problem any more.
The attachment icons are also more colourful and appear bigger and brighter. WhatsApp already has a huge palette of emoticons and no new additions have been made, but there have been a few design and colour tweaks. The background is now bright white, which makes the emojis stand out more prominently on the screen.
Given WhatsApp has rolled out the Voice Calling feature to all Android devices as well, this easy on the eye Material Design will only provide a further boost to its popularity.
Given WhatsApp has rolled out the Voice Calling feature to all Android devices as well, this easy on the eye Material Design will only provide a further boost to its popularity.
