WhatsApp Tests New Media Viewing Interface Allowing Direct Replies on Android Beta

WhatsApp is testing a redesigned media viewing screen in its Android beta version, aiming to improve how users respond to messages containing images and videos. The new interface introduces a dedicated toolbar at the bottom of the full-screen media view, enabling users to send text replies, record voice messages, and attach files without leaving the media display. Currently, users must exit the media view and return to the chat window to reply, but the update consolidates response options directly within the media screen. This change focuses solely on interface structure to streamline user interaction during media consumption. The feature is currently in an experimental phase and available only to some beta testers on Android. There is no confirmed timeline for a wider release or whether the design will undergo further modifications during testing.