The popular messaging app WhatsApp is working on new chat themes to offer iPhone users a more customizable experience. Discovered with the WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.31.10.74 update, this new feature will allow users to personalize the interface.

Still under development, the feature is particularly noteworthy for including animated wallpapers. To maintain design consistency and maximize readability, the app will automatically assign appropriate bubble colors to each theme category. This feature, which has not yet reached the beta testing stage, is expected to be offered to all users in a future update.

Themes are Offered in Three Different Categories

The new system that WhatsApp is working on consists of three main categories: Highlights, Doodle, and Minimal. This variety makes it easier for users to find a look that suits their taste. In particular, the ‘Highlights’ category brings animated wallpapers specifically designed to add a dynamic feel to chats.

WhatsApp aims to keep the animation speed quite low and stable so as not to disrupt users’ focus on messages.

Doodle and Minimal Options Maintain Simplicity

For those who don’t want to give up the classic WhatsApp look, doodle themes bring back the app’s iconic patterns. On the other hand, for users who prefer a completely simple screen, minimal themes eliminate visual clutter by offering white backgrounds in light mode and dark backgrounds in dark mode. Both options make the user experience cleaner.

Automatic Color Selection Supports Accessibility

One of the most prominent features in the new themes is the efficient management of chat bubble colors. When users select a theme, WhatsApp automatically determines the most compatible colors with the background. This formula prevents text from disappearing into the background and keeps the contrast ratio always readable. Thus, the design becomes both aesthetic and functional.

In line with its cross-platform strategy, this new theme system will offer a similar user experience simultaneously on iOS and Android platforms.

Development Process Still Ongoing

Currently, this feature, which is closed in WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.31.10.74, is not yet open to test users. The development team continues to make improvements to make the interface more fluid. No official date has yet been shared regarding when the feature will be generally available.

What do you think about these new chat themes that WhatsApp plans to bring? Would you prefer to customize the color of your own chat bubbles or is WhatsApp’s automatic selection more convenient? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.