WhatsApp's Upcoming Theme Customization and Google Drive Storage Changes: What to Expect

WhatsApp is reportedly set to introduce a novel feature called Themes, granting users greater control over their app's appearance. Uncovered in the WhatsApp Beta for iOS 24.1.10.70 update by WABetaInfo, this new functionality will enable users to modify the app's branding color from a selection of five options: green, blue, white, coral, and purple.

Enhancing Visual Appeal and Accessibility

The introduction of Themes aims to enhance the visual appeal of the messaging platform while potentially improving accessibility. With the ability to alter the app's branding color, users, including those with visual impairments or specific color preferences, can personalize their experience. This move empowers users to express themselves through customized app colors, fostering a more visually appealing interface.

Future Possibilities: Expanded Personalization Options

Reports suggest that WhatsApp may further expand customization options by allowing users to adjust bubble colors in the future. This potential enhancement could elevate personalization, providing users with a deeper level of customization for their messaging experience.

Changes to Google Drive Storage for WhatsApp Backups

In parallel news, WhatsApp is revamping its policy regarding Google Drive storage for chat backups. Previously, Android users enjoyed free storage space for storing chat histories, images, and videos. However, WhatsApp data stored on Google Drive will soon count towards the 15GB storage limit, prompting users to consider a Google One subscription or manage within the allocated storage.

WhatsApp Transition and Notification Details

WhatsApp plans to implement these changes in 2024, informing users through a banner notification in WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat backup. The 30-day advance notice will provide users with ample time to decide between upgrading to Google One or managing their data within the 15GB limit.

As WhatsApp gears up to introduce customizable themes for enhanced user personalization and adjusts Google Drive storage policies, users can anticipate these changes to unfold in the coming year, offering both visual and storage-related modifications to the popular messaging platform.

Latest WhatsApp updates of 2023

WhatsApp's 2023: A Year of Big Updates and Feature Tweaks

2023 was a year of exciting improvements for WhatsApp, with the platform rolling out a slew of new features and refining existing ones. Here's a look at some of the most notable highlights:

1. Edit Messages: Tired of typos and miscommunications? WhatsApp finally introduced the much-awaited edit message feature in 2023. Users now have a 15-minute window to edit sent messages, ensuring smoother communication and fewer embarrassing blunders.

2. Polls and Chat Lock: Interactive features took center stage, with the introduction of polls for group chats. This makes decision-making and group discussions more engaging. Additionally, chat lock allows users to password-protect specific chats, adding an extra layer of privacy for sensitive conversations.

3. Voice Status and Advanced Search: Sharing thoughts went beyond text with the introduction of voice status. Now, users can record and share voice messages as status updates, adding a personal touch to their online presence. Furthermore, advanced search capabilities were enhanced, making it easier to find specific messages and media within chats.

4. Single Vote Polls and Emoji Search: Polls got even more granular with the addition of single-vote polls, perfect for situations where a clear consensus is needed. Emoji lovers were also delighted with the improved emoji search feature, making it quicker and easier to find the perfect emoticon for any situation.

5. Increased Security and Privacy Measures: WhatsApp prioritized user security with account protect, a feature alerting users of unauthorized login attempts on their account. Additionally, device verification checks help ensure you're connected to the right device, offering further protection.

6. Disappearing Messages Enhancements: Disappearing messages became more flexible with the ability to choose duration (24 hours or 90 days) and the option to automatically disappear all new messages in individual chats.

7. Communities Feature Preview: A glimpse into the future, WhatsApp began testing Communities, a feature aiming to bring together multiple groups under one umbrella for larger-scale organization and interaction.

8. Improved Camera Features and Group Calling Updates: Sharing visuals got easier with features like HD photo and video sending and the ability to pause and resume voice and video calls.

9. Username Feature (In Development): Personalization is on the horizon with the upcoming username feature, allowing users to choose a unique identifier for their profile.

10. Continued Focus on Privacy and Security: Throughout 2023, WhatsApp remained committed to user privacy and security, implementing various measures to protect data and combat misinformation.

This is just a taste of the many improvements WhatsApp offered in 2023. With a constant focus on user experience and new features in the pipeline, the popular messaging platform promises to keep evolving and adapting to the changing digital landscape.