WhatsApp Web is Getting a Major Visual Overhaul with New Chat Themes
For years, WhatsApp Web has been the minimalist sibling of the mobile app, offering users little more than a choice between light and dark modes. That is about to change. Meta is currently testing a significant update that brings extensive customization to the desktop experience, allowing users to move beyond the standard gray message bubbles.
According to reports from 9to5Google and Android Central, Meta is testing 49 new chat themes for the WhatsApp web client. This update aims to bring the desktop version closer to the feature-rich customization found on mobile devices.
Beyond Wallpapers: Cohesive Visual Customization
Unlike previous updates that focused solely on chat backgrounds, these new themes provide a more integrated aesthetic. The update allows users to adjust the message bubble colors, which then automatically adjusts the chat view’s background or wallpaper to match. This creates a cohesive visual experience rather than a disjointed mix of a custom image and default bubble colors.
One of the most practical additions is the ability to set pre-chat themes. This feature allows users to assign specific themes to individual contacts or group chats, providing a neat visual reference that helps distinguish between different conversations at a glance.
Local Customization vs. Global Themes
these design choices are local. When a user selects a theme on WhatsApp Web, the change only applies to their own view. The recipient of the message will not witness the theme; they will continue to see the chat based on their own personal settings. This ensures that user preferences don’t interfere with the experience of others in the chat.
The Bigger Picture: Mobile vs. Desktop
While WhatsApp Web is catching up, the mobile app continues to lead in customization. For several years, mobile users have had access to chat backgrounds and color options. More recently, WhatsApp introduced AI-powered customization. According to WhatsApp’s official FAQ, mobile users can now create AI-generated chat themes and wallpapers by navigating to Settings > Chats > Default chat theme and selecting “Create with AI” to describe a custom image.
- 49 New Themes: Meta is testing nearly 50 theme variations for WhatsApp Web, including the default light theme.
- Integrated Design: Themes change both the message bubble colors and the chat wallpaper for a cohesive look.
- Contact-Specific Themes: Users can set unique themes for specific groups or individuals.
- Local Only: Theme changes are only visible to the person who applies them.
- Mobile Advantage: Mobile users already have these features, plus the ability to generate themes using AI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my friends see the theme I chose for our chat?
No. Choosing a theme on WhatsApp Web only applies the look to your own screen. It does not globally theme the chat for other participants.
How many themes are being added to WhatsApp Web?
WABetaInfo reports that 49 variations are currently in testing. When combined with the default light theme, the total reaches approximately 50 options.
Can I use AI to create themes on the web version?
Currently, the “Create with AI” feature for chat themes and wallpapers is available on the mobile app via the Chat settings menu. The current web update focuses on a set of pre-defined themes.
Conclusion
The introduction of comprehensive themes to WhatsApp Web marks a shift in how Meta views its desktop client. By moving away from a simple Chromium wrapper and adding deep customization, WhatsApp is transforming the web experience from a basic companion tool into a more personalized communication hub. As these 49 themes move from testing to a full rollout, the “boring gray bubbles” of the desktop era are officially coming to an end.
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