Bengaluru: Messaging platform WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that brings Facebook Messenger-like notification bubbles to Android devices, aiming to improve multitasking and user convenience. The feature, still under development, is expected to allow users to access and respond to messages without fully opening the app.
According to reports, the notification bubbles feature is not yet available even for beta testers, but it is being actively developed to enhance how users interact with chats while using other applications on their smartphones.
Focus on multitasking and accessibility
The proposed feature is designed to integrate closely with the Android notification system, enabling users to stay connected while performing other tasks such as browsing, watching videos, or using different apps.
Notification bubbles will appear as floating icons on the screen, representing individual chats or group conversations. This allows users to quickly open a conversation in a compact window without interrupting their ongoing activity.
The move reflects a broader industry trend where messaging platforms are focusing on seamless multitasking experiences. By reducing the need to switch between apps, WhatsApp aims to make communication faster and more efficient.
How notification bubbles will work
Once implemented, the feature will display a small floating bubble whenever a new message is received. The bubble will typically show the profile picture of the contact or group, along with a WhatsApp icon for easy identification.
Tapping on the bubble will open a mini chat window overlaying the current screen. This window will allow users to read messages and send replies instantly, without navigating away from their current app.
The functionality closely resembles the chat heads feature popularised by Facebook Messenger, which has been widely used for quick replies and ongoing conversations.
While the feature may appeal to users who value multitasking, it could also be seen as intrusive by some. To address this, WhatsApp is expected to include an option that allows users to disable notification bubbles if they prefer a less cluttered interface.
Compatibility and availability
Notification bubbles are supported on Android 10 and above, although they tend to function more smoothly on Android 11 and newer versions. Users may need to enable the feature manually through device settings once it becomes available.
Since the feature is still in development, there is no confirmed timeline for its release. It is likely to be rolled out gradually, starting with select beta testers before reaching a wider audience.
The availability of the feature may also depend on device compatibility and manufacturer-specific Android customisations.
WhatsApp’s interface redesign plans
Alongside notification bubbles, WhatsApp is reportedly planning a redesign of its top app bar. The company may replace the current text-based app name with its official logo, marking one of the most noticeable visual changes to the interface in over a decade.
The existing layout has remained largely unchanged since 2013, and the proposed update could signal a broader effort to modernise the app’s design. Reports suggest that the redesigned top bar may also create space for additional features, such as status updates or quick-access indicators.
If implemented, these changes could improve navigation and provide a more streamlined user experience.
Evolving messaging experience
WhatsApp’s ongoing development of new features highlights its focus on adapting to changing user expectations. As smartphones become central to both personal and professional communication, features that support multitasking and efficiency are becoming increasingly important.
The introduction of notification bubbles could significantly enhance how users manage conversations, particularly for those who frequently switch between apps throughout the day.
However, the success of the feature will depend on its usability and the level of control provided to users. Balancing convenience with minimal disruption will be key to its adoption.
Conclusion
As WhatsApp continues to evolve, the addition of notification bubbles represents a step towards more flexible and user-friendly messaging. While still under development, the feature has the potential to reshape how users interact with conversations on Android devices.
With a gradual rollout expected in the future, users can look forward to a more dynamic and multitasking-friendly messaging experience—provided the feature is refined to meet diverse user preferences.