New Delhi: WhatsApp has reportedly begun rolling out a redesigned message action menu for Android users, introducing a cleaner and more intuitive interface similar to the one available on iPhones. The update aims to simplify message management by providing quicker access to commonly used actions through a contextual menu displayed directly beside selected messages.
The feature, which has been under development for several years, is currently available to a limited number of beta testers and is expected to reach more users in the coming weeks.
Long-awaited feature reaches beta testing
According to reports, WhatsApp first experimented with the redesigned message menu in 2023 as part of efforts to bring a more iPhone-like user experience to Android devices.
Now, the feature has reportedly begun rolling out to some users running WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.23.8. The update replaces the traditional message action interface with a contextual menu that appears directly next to the selected message.
The redesign is intended to make message interactions faster and more convenient by reducing the number of steps required to access frequently used options.
Cleaner and more organised interface
Under the current Android interface, users often need to access the overflow menu at the top of the application to perform actions on messages. Additional functions such as forwarding and editing are also located separately in the top app bar.
The new design consolidates these actions into a single contextual menu positioned beside the selected message. Frequently used options are displayed prominently, while less commonly used actions are grouped under a dedicated “More” section.
This arrangement is expected to reduce screen clutter and make message management more efficient.
How the redesigned menu works
The updated interface retains the familiar tap-and-hold gesture used to select messages on WhatsApp.
Once a message is selected, the redesigned contextual menu appears beside it, providing immediate access to available actions. Since the interaction method remains unchanged, users will not need to learn new controls or navigation patterns.
The feature is designed to work in both individual and group chats, ensuring a consistent experience across different types of conversations.
Greater consistency across platforms
One of the key objectives of the redesign is to bring greater uniformity between WhatsApp’s Android and iPhone applications.
Although Android and iOS follow different design philosophies, the new contextual menu creates a more similar user experience across both platforms. This may particularly benefit users who regularly switch between Android and Apple devices.
The update also aligns with WhatsApp’s broader efforts to modernise its interface and streamline common user interactions.
Wider rollout expected soon
At present, the redesigned message menu remains limited to a select group of beta testers. WhatsApp has not officially announced a timeline for a wider release.
However, reports suggest that if testing proceeds smoothly and no major issues are identified, the feature could be rolled out to more Android users over the coming weeks.
The update represents another step in WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance usability and improve the overall messaging experience for its global user base.