Observed Signal · Sep 5, 2026 · Market Signal · Source: WABetaInfo · Impact: 5/5
WhatsApp launches message menu compatible with Liquid Glass
WhatsApp is finally making the reaction tray and the context menu compatible with Liquid Glass on iOS. Both now feature the same translucent appearance already visible in the chat bar. With this update, WhatsApp is refreshing the design to make every element of the message menu feel consistent with the chat screen.
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Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
WhatsApp Adds Question Stickers and Liquid Glass Design
WhatsApp is testing a new interactive Question feature in Status that lets users post open or yes/no questions directly in their status. First rolled out to Android beta testers and then to iOS beta users, the feature appears limited to a subset of the testing community with a wider rollout planned in coming weeks. Answers are privacy-protected, stored privately with end-to-end encryption, and visible only to the question-asker; responses can be deleted or reported from the Activity Tab. Some reactions can be anonymously shared in the user's own status. The update also introduces Liquid Glass design for iOS, bringing a translucent, spatial look to UI elements, including a redesigned bottom tab bar and a more dynamic keyboard as part of a wider iOS 26 SDK integration. The version 25.28.75 update was released via the App Store in early October, aligning WhatsApp visually with the iOS ecosystem. WhatsApp frames these changes as boosting interaction and moving toward a social hub, while maintaining privacy.
WhatsApp launches a Mac-style navigation sidebar for iPad
WhatsApp is rolling out a Mac-style sidebar for iPad, making it easier for users to navigate the app. The update replaces the tab bar at the bottom of the screen with a vertical navigation panel on the left. The new layout looks good on a larger screen and is fully compatible with Liquid Glass.
WhatsApp names Kunal Shah; Liquid Glass rolls out
WhatsApp is getting a new leader as Will Cathcart hands over control to Kunal Shah, the founder and outgoing CEO of Indian fintech CRED. Under Cathcart WhatsApp grew into a platform with more than three billion monthly active users and has progressively added features and advertising. Meta is a minority investor in CRED. Separately, WhatsApp is rolling out the 'Liquid Glass' visual design to some iOS beta users: chat bars and navigation elements appear translucent with new transition effects. The Liquid Glass UI follows earlier implementations across other WhatsApp interfaces and a wider rollout is expected. The article was published on 2026-06-23.
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