WhatsApp Web is finally catching up to its mobile counterpart with a long-awaited chat themes feature, currently in development for the browser version. According to 9to5Google, the update will bring nearly 50 new theme options to WhatsApp Web, allowing users to personalize the look of their conversations directly from their browser.
The feature, first spotted by WABetaInfo, is expected to introduce up to 49 color variations, including multiple shades and tones of similar colors for greater flexibility. Right now, WhatsApp Web only lets users customize a few things, like setting a default wallpaper or adding basic doodle overlays.
The new chat themes feature will change that by letting users adjust message bubble colors and matching wallpapers to create a visually coordinated interface. This brings WhatsApp Web closer to the customization options already available on iOS and Android, where chat themes have been popular for making conversations more personal and visually distinct.
How will the new WhatsApp Web Themes work?
The upcoming WhatsApp Web themes feature is designed as a set of visual presets that users can apply with ease. Here is what to expect based on the current development build:
- 49 color options: WhatsApp is exploring a wide range of chat themes, including different shades of similar colors. Instead of offering just one color, users will be able to choose from multiple variations, such as different shades of blue.
- Coordinated interface: When a user selects a theme, both the message bubble color and the wallpaper will adjust to create a consistent, harmonious look.
- Per-chat customization: In addition to the default global theme, WhatsApp Web lets users set a different theme for each conversation. For example, you might choose a simple blue theme for work chats and an orange design for group chats with friends. This makes it easier to tell conversations apart quickly.
- Private and personal: Themes applied on WhatsApp Web are visible only to the user who selects them. Other participants in the chat will not see these changes, ensuring that customization remains a personal preference.
- Accessibility benefits: The feature also improves accessibility, as users can choose high-contrast themes that are easier on the eyes or low-glare options for night-time use.
According to Business Standard, the feature is currently under development and not yet available for beta testing. It is expected to roll out in a future update, likely starting with beta users before a wider release. Once available, users will be able to access theme settings directly within the page settings on WhatsApp Web.
The arrival of chat themes on WhatsApp Web addresses a long-standing gap between the browser version and its mobile apps. With mobile already offering 28 themes and AI-generated options, this update brings web users up to speed. Given that WhatsApp Web serves over 500 million users, many of whom rely on the browser version for daily work and personal communication, the addition of customizable themes is a meaningful quality-of-life improvement.
In conclusion, WhatsApp Web is set to receive nearly 50 new chat themes, offering users a long-overdue way to personalize their browser-based messaging experience with per-chat customization and a wide range of color options.
