WhatsApp Tests New Contacts Tab, Removing Updates Section in iOS Interface

WhatsApp is testing a significant user interface change on iOS by removing the "Updates" tab from the bottom navigation bar and replacing it with a new "Contacts" tab. According to WABetaInfo, this update aims to simplify navigation and refocus the app on direct communication between users. The change follows a series of ongoing adjustments, including moving Status updates to the top of the chat list, similar to Stories on other platforms, and integrating Channels into a dedicated filter within the Chats tab.

With Status and Channels removed from the Updates tab, the tab loses most of its content, prompting WhatsApp to replace it with a dedicated Contacts center. The new tab will display the user's favorite contacts at the top, followed by the full contact list, which can be sorted alphabetically or by activity level. When sorted by activity, users will see who is currently online via a green dot and recent activity information, while respecting privacy settings that allow users to hide their activity status.

This iOS test is part of a broader effort that includes similar trials on Android, aiming to create a more unified user experience across both operating systems with quicker and clearer access to contacts. The feature is still in development and will be gradually rolled out to users after testing is complete.