WhatsApp started testing a new feature that will radically change the user experience with the 2.26.17.2 beta update released for the Android platform. In this new version, which can be accessed via the Google Play Store, it is planned to move Channels, a popular feature of the platform, from the existing Updates tab to the main Chats tab.

This regulation, which is still under development, aims to enable users to switch more quickly between their personal messages and the channels they follow. With this move, WhatsApp aims to facilitate users’ access to content and increase interaction by simplifying in-app navigation.

WhatsApp Takes Steps to Simplify User Experience

The popular messaging platform continues to make significant changes to the interface, taking into account users’ feedback. The Updates tab, which has become complicated especially with the arrival of the Channels feature, will have a more organized structure with the new arrangement. Developers are completing infrastructure preparations so that users can manage both their personal chats and corporate channel shares from a single screen.

Special Filtering Options Are Introduced for Channels

In the new design, Channels will not blend directly into the main chat list. Instead, users will be able to view only the channels they follow, thanks to a special filter that will be added to the top of the Chats tab. In this way, personal messaging traffic and information flow will continue to be clearly separated.

Users will not see channels in the All list; They will only be able to access the channels when they select the relevant filter.

Updates Tab Returns to Its Old Name Status

Moving channels to the Chats tab will also change the contents of the existing Updates tab. This tab will now only host instant status updates shared by friends and contacts. In line with this change, WhatsApp is expected to return to its old simple structure by updating the tab name to Status again.

This move aims to make status posts more visible and strengthen the social aspect of the platform.

Status Shares are Displayed at the Top of the Chat List

As part of beta testing, some users can now see status updates directly at the top of the Chats tab. WhatsApp provides quick access to the shares of people in the contact list by creating a horizontal strip in this area.

Users can see the entire status list when they scroll down, eliminating the need to go to the Updates tab.

Testing Processes of New Features Continue Absolutely

WhatsApp is currently testing these features, discovered with the Android 2.26.17.2 beta version, with a limited user group. It is planned that these functions under development will undergo a comprehensive evaluation in terms of performance and user experience before being made available for general use.

If the test results and user feedback are positive, all Android users around the world will have this new interface.

WhatsApp is Preparing for New Tabs in the Future

If Channels and Status updates are fully integrated under the Chats tab, there will be a gap in the navigation bar at the bottom of the app. This strengthens the possibility that WhatsApp will introduce a different tab for completely new functions or services in the future.

Although there is no official announcement yet, these structural changes may be part of the platform’s vision of turning into a multi-purpose super app.

Do you think moving the WhatsApp Channels feature to the Chats tab will make it easier to use or will it make the interface more complicated? You can share your opinions and thoughts about this new design with us in the comments section below.