WhatsApp is currently testing a new “Notification Bubbles” feature, which was first spotted in the Android beta version on Friday, April 24, 2026. This feature is designed to bring a Facebook Messenger-style multitasking experience to the world’s most popular messaging app.
1. How “Notification Bubbles” Work
The feature leverages Android’s native “Bubbles” framework (introduced in Android 11) to allow for seamless multitasking.
- Floating Icons: When you receive a message, a small circular bubble featuring the contact’s profile picture and a tiny WhatsApp logo will appear on your screen.
- Overlay Interface: Tapping the bubble opens a compact, floating chat window on top of whatever app you are currently using (e.g., YouTube, Instagram, or a game).
- Direct Replies: You can read and reply to messages instantly within this mini-window without having to switch apps or open the full WhatsApp interface.
- Customizable: Users who find floating icons intrusive will have the option to disable the feature entirely in the app settings.
2. Beta Availability & Requirements
As of late April 2026, the feature is in the early development/beta phase:
- Platform: Currently being tested for Android (specifically versions 11 and above for optimal performance). While some reports mention potential iOS testing, the feature is primarily an Android-centric multitasking tool.
- Rollout: It is currently visible to select beta testers. A wider release to the stable version of WhatsApp is expected later in 2026 once the “bugs” are ironed out.
3. Part of a Broader 2026 Redesign
The introduction of bubbles coincides with a major visual overhaul for WhatsApp’s 13-year-old interface:
- New Top Bar: WhatsApp is testing a redesign that replaces the “WhatsApp” text in the top bar with the official logo, freeing up space for status updates or other navigation tools.
- WhatsApp Plus: This month also saw the pilot of “WhatsApp Plus,” an optional paid subscription (approx. ₹200–₹250/month) that offers advanced customization like custom themes, expanded pinned chats (up to 20), and unique notification tones.