• Source:JND
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WhatsApp is rolling out a major usability improvement to its iPad app — and its one that makes switching between chats, calls and settings much easier. Based on early beta discoveries, this revamp will give users of WhatsApp for iPad a similar experience to that enjoyed by its Mac equipment peers and adoption a more clean and tangible interface. While the feature is still under development, it should start rolling out for beta users in a few weeks before eventually being made available to everyone via an upcoming update.

WhatsApp Sidebar Feature Spotted in iPad Beta

This info is from WABetaInfo, a popular tracker for WhatsApp features, which found code referring to the future sidebar within the WhatsApp beta version 25.29.10.72 for iOS. This version is being tested through Apple’s TestFlight program, though the sidebar itself is not working just yet for testers.

The new sidebar resembles that seen on WhatsApp for Mac, listing key sections - Chats, Calls, Communities and Settings - in one column on the left of the screen. This change from WhatsApp's traditional bottom navigation tab bar makes the messaging app appear closer to other desktop messaging applications.

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What the New Design Means for iPad Users

Here’s the thing — iPads have screens that are much larger, and a sidebar layout puts that extra space to better use. The vertically oriented design has the potential to make it easier for users to jump between sections with swipes, access shortcuts more quickly and keep the app’s layout consistent across iPhone, iPad and Mac.

Design continuity is important; it allows users to easily transition between devices without learning new controls. Furthermore, the sidebar could serve as an opportunity to integrate keyboard shortcuts or drag and drop functionality for future implementation, further narrowing the difference between how WhatsApp looks on mobile versus your desktop computer.

At present, the feature isn’t active for beta testers who can take advantage of early releases — it’s still being developed — although the inclusion of code in Kronos 2 indicates a public launch might not be far behind. It will roll out initially to TestFlight beta users then to all iPad users once Meta completes its testing.

More Features Coming to WhatsApp on iOS

In addition to the upcoming sidebar, Meta has been working on a redesign for WhatsApp’s visuals and features. The app recently updated to a new Liquid Glass UI that added semi-transparencies and animations in an effort to achieve "omics."

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Other recent updates include:

- Support for Live Photos (iOS) and Motion Photos (Android)

- New chat themes and sticker packs

- Video call backgrounds and status question features currently in testing

They re some recent updates that are indicative of a broader ambition making WhatsApp more versatile, modern and friendly to devices in any given ecosystem.

Conclusion

Now, with the side bar feature live for Tablet in source mentioned link below, WhatsApp for iPad has all of a sudden sprung up to be more like its counterpart companion app that suits the iPad’s larger screen. When rolled out, users will be able to enjoy a more sleek and consistent experience when they chat on phone compared with their iPad or Mac.