WhatsApp has been said to be developing a new feature for iOS users, and now it seems that the Facebook-owned messaging app is planning to bring changes to its profile section. It’s now in testing and will add a slightly more social-media-like look to user profiles, similar to what we see on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Curiously though, the feature was previously found under works on Android too, hinting at a broader release across platforms for the WhatsApp users.

WhatsApp Cover Photo Feature Spotted on iOS Beta

According to feature tracker WABetaInfo, the cover photo option has appeared in the WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.1.10.71, available via Apple’s TestFlight programme.

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The update introduces a dedicated space in the profile interface for a cover image. The layout places the cover photo above the existing profile picture, creating a banner-style appearance. This design closely matches the format already used by WhatsApp Business accounts, where businesses can display branding visuals.

How the Cover Photo Will Work

The process of adding a cover image is expected to be simple and familiar. Users will be able to:

- Tap the cover area to take a new photo or select one from the gallery

- Reposition or crop the image

- Replace or remove it anytime

Once enabled, the cover photo will remain visible both when viewing someone’s profile and when accessing your own profile settings.

It makes sense for that, because previously you’d only be able to use a circle profile picture on WhatsApp, but this opens up some more space for expression and personality.

Already Available on WhatsApp Business

This isn’t a feature that’s entirely new to WhatsApp, as small businesses on WhatsApp Business have long featured cover photos in much the same way — for displaying logos, shopfronts, promotions and brand imagery. Now it appears WhatsApp is prepared to extend this flexibility to regular personal accounts.

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Other Recent WhatsApp Features

Alongside this upcoming change, WhatsApp has recently rolled out several new features, including:

- Member tags for better identity context in groups

- Text-to-sticker conversion via Sticker Search

- Custom early reminders for group event invites

What to Expect Next

The cover photo feature is currently in beta testing, so there is no word when it might roll out to stable versions on iOS and Android. However, its presence on each app certainly lends itself to the notion that it would be publicised soon.

If and when introduced, this update can completely overhaul the way WhatsApp profiles appear to a user, making them more expressive and visually exciting.