WhatsApp to introduce chat themes for web platform

CALIFORNIA: Messaging platform WhatsApp is developing a new feature for its web platform that would allow users to customise the interface with dozens of themes, technology news outlet WABetaInfo reported.

The update, still in testing, could introduce nearly 50 desktop themes for WhatsApp Web, enabling users to personalise chat appearance, including message bubble colours and background wallpapers.

WhatsApp Web, the browser-based version of the messaging service, has historically offered limited customisation options compared to its mobile app, which already allows users to modify chat backgrounds and colours. The web platform currently supports basic features such as messaging, calls and multi-device syncing.

The planned themes would allow users to assign visual styles to individual chats, potentially offering distinct layouts for different contacts or group conversations, according to the report.

The feature is expected to apply only to the user’s own interface and would not affect how chats appear to others.

Meta Platforms has been expanding cross-platform capabilities of WhatsApp in recent years, aiming to improve consistency between mobile, desktop and web experiences.

It was not immediately clear when the feature would be rolled out publicly, though it is likely to be introduced first in beta testing before a wider release.