WhatsApp is rolling out a visual refresh for iPhone users, adopting Apple’s “Liquid Glass” design aesthetic introduced with iOS 26. Although many users are welcoming the modern look, others are reporting feelings of dizziness and visual discomfort, highlighting the subjective nature of design preferences and the potential for unintended consequences when prioritizing aesthetics.
The “Liquid Glass” design, as Apple describes it, emphasizes transparency, reflective surfaces, and depth effects. In practice, In other words backgrounds subtly shimmer through menus, keyboards visually adapt to the chat background, and interface elements respond to movement and color. The goal is a lighter, more modern aesthetic that feels closely integrated with the hardware of contemporary iPhones. This design philosophy extends to other Apple applications, aiming for a cohesive user experience across the ecosystem.
However, the dramatic shift in visual presentation isn’t universally appreciated. Some WhatsApp users with sensitivities are experiencing adverse effects, including dizziness and visual overload, triggered by the constant depth and translucent layers. Beyond the physical discomfort, some users are finding the new design hinders usability, with elements like the tab bar becoming harder to distinguish when the background shines through. This underscores the importance of accessibility considerations in user interface design.
The visual changes are most prominent in WhatsApp’s redesigned navigation bar, which now appears as a “glass” element. Menus are semi-transparent, buttons and input fields have increased spatial depth, and the keyboard subtly mirrors the background. Notably, the core functionality of the app remains unchanged. users can still send messages, make calls, and share media as before. The rollout is happening in stages, beginning with WhatsApp Business accounts, a common practice for testing new features before wider release.
As of February 22, 2026, a precise timeline for the broader rollout to regular WhatsApp users remains unclear. Some impatient users have attempted to force the update by deleting and reinstalling the app, a method that can sometimes perform but carries the risk of significant data loss and is not recommended by WhatsApp. The company is distributing the new design server-side, meaning users will receive it automatically when it’s enabled for their account, making patience the safest approach.
The Rise of “Liquid Glass” and its Impact on User Experience
Apple’s embrace of the “Liquid Glass” design language represents a broader trend in user interface design towards greater realism and visual fidelity. This approach aims to create a more immersive and engaging experience, blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds. However, it also introduces new challenges, particularly around accessibility and user comfort. The success of this design philosophy hinges on finding a balance between aesthetic appeal and practical usability.
The shift towards transparency and depth effects isn’t unique to Apple. Many tech companies are experimenting with similar visual styles, driven by advancements in display technology and a desire to create more visually appealing interfaces. However, the WhatsApp experience serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating that what looks good on paper – or in a design mockup – doesn’t always translate seamlessly to real-world usage. The potential for negative side effects, even for a subset of users, needs to be carefully considered.
User Reactions and Concerns
Online forums and social media are filled with reactions to the new WhatsApp design. While many users praise the modern aesthetic, a significant number express frustration with the usability issues and visual discomfort. Some users have reported eye strain, headaches, and difficulty focusing on text due to the increased visual complexity. These concerns highlight the importance of user testing and iterative design, allowing developers to identify and address potential problems before a feature is widely released.
The debate over the new design also underscores the subjective nature of aesthetics. What one person finds visually appealing, another may find distracting or unpleasant. What we have is particularly true for design elements that rely heavily on visual effects, such as transparency and depth. Providing users with options to customize the visual appearance of the app could help mitigate these issues, allowing them to tailor the experience to their individual preferences and needs.
What’s Next for WhatsApp’s Design?
WhatsApp has not yet announced a specific timeline for the full rollout of the “Liquid Glass” design. However, the company is likely monitoring user feedback closely and may make adjustments based on the reported issues. It’s possible that future updates will include options to reduce the intensity of the visual effects or to revert to a more traditional design. Users can stay informed about updates and changes through the official WhatsApp website and social media channels.
The rollout of this new design also comes as WhatsApp continues to add features to its platform. In February 2026, reports indicate the messaging app recently added a highly requested feature for its 3 billion users. These ongoing improvements demonstrate WhatsApp’s commitment to enhancing the user experience and remaining competitive in the messaging app market.
As WhatsApp continues to evolve, it will be crucial for the company to prioritize both aesthetics and usability, ensuring that its design choices are inclusive and accessible to all users. The current situation serves as a valuable lesson, reminding developers that even well-intentioned design changes can have unintended consequences.
Do you have thoughts on WhatsApp’s new design? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
