The new interface features a transparent, compact pill-shaped navigation bar that shrinks when users scroll through chats and expands when they swipe up.

WhatsApp is testing a redesigned floating navigation bar for Android users, introducing a more compact interface with a transparent appearance and rounded corners.

The new design has appeared in WhatsApp beta build 2.26.45.5, with WABetaInfo providing the first look at the updated interface.

Unlike the previous static navigation bar, the redesigned version changes its size depending on how users interact with the app. When users scroll down through their chats, the navigation bar shrinks into a smaller pill-shaped design.

The compact bar features rounded corners and removes the text labels previously displayed alongside navigation icons. This gives the interface a cleaner appearance while taking up less screen space.

When users swipe upwards, the floating navigation bar returns to its full size, making the navigation options more visible.

The redesigned interface is available across WhatsApp’s main navigation sections, including Chats, Updates, Contacts and Calls. This means users can experience the updated design while moving between different parts of the application.

The floating navigation bar also replaces the previous fixed layout, marking another interface change in WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to update its Android application.

Users interested in trying the new design can join the WhatsApp beta programme through the Google Play Store. However, availability may depend on the beta rollout and the user’s device.

Since the feature has appeared in a beta version, it may undergo further changes before reaching the stable release. WhatsApp has not announced an official date for its wider rollout.