WhatsApp’s Main Screen is Getting an Update

WhatsApp is currently testing a new dedicated Contacts tab in its Android application, providing users with a different method to explore individuals, check their online status, and view birthday reminders. This feature is only available in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android through the Google Play Store and has not yet been rolled out to all users.

The new Contacts section is integrated directly into WhatsApp's bottom navigation bar, showcasing a list of contacts with a green dot indicating those who are currently online. Users who have opted out of sharing their last seen or online visibility will not be displayed as online. Additionally, the Contacts tab will display birthday information for contacts whose birthdays are on the current date, featuring a cake emoji and a "Birthday today" label.

This birthday data is automatically retrieved from the user's phone contacts. A search bar at the top of the tab enables users to locate contacts using a name, phone number, or username, while the contact list can be sorted either alphabetically or by activity, with currently online contacts appearing at the top. The tab also offers an option to invite individuals who do not currently use WhatsApp.

For the time being, the feature remains limited to beta testers, and WhatsApp has not provided a timeline for its broader release to all Android users.