WhatsApp Web Set to Introduce Chat Themes with 49 Colour Options

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a major visual upgrade for its web platform, aimed at enhancing user personalisation. According to a report by WABetaInfo, the messaging service is developing a chat themes feature for WhatsApp Web that could introduce up to 49 colour options, bringing the browser-based experience closer to its mobile counterpart.

A New Level of Customisation for WhatsApp Web

Moving Beyond Basic Personalisation

Currently, WhatsApp Web offers limited customisation options. Users can change chat wallpapers and apply simple doodle overlays, but the overall interface remains largely uniform. The upcoming update aims to transform this by introducing chat themes that modify both message bubbles and background designs.

Visual Upgrade for Better User Experience

With the new feature, users will be able to select a default theme that changes the look and feel of conversations. This includes adjusting the colour of message bubbles and aligning wallpapers to match, creating a more cohesive and visually appealing chat environment.

How Chat Themes Will Work

Themes as Visual Presets

According to the report, chat themes will function as pre-designed visual presets. Once a user selects a theme, the platform will automatically apply coordinated colours and backgrounds to maintain consistency.

These options are expected to be accessible through the settings menu on WhatsApp Web, making it easy for users to switch between themes.

Unified Experience Across Devices

The feature is likely to mirror the chat theme functionality already available on WhatsApp’s mobile apps. This ensures a seamless and consistent user experience across smartphones and desktops, which has been a key focus for Meta in recent updates.

Personalised Themes for Individual Chats

Custom Styles for Different Conversations

One of the most notable aspects of the upcoming feature is the ability to apply different themes to individual chats. This means users can assign unique styles to separate conversations.

For instance, a user could choose a minimal or professional theme for work-related chats, while opting for more colourful or vibrant themes for personal or group conversations.

Improved Chat Identification

This level of customisation could significantly improve usability. By visually distinguishing chats, users may find it easier to navigate conversations quickly—especially those managing multiple chats daily.

49 Colour Options for Greater Flexibility

Wide Range of Shades and Tones

The report suggests that WhatsApp is testing 49 different theme options, offering a diverse palette of colours. Instead of limiting users to a single shade, the platform will likely provide multiple variations of each colour.

For example, users may be able to select from several tones of blue, green, or other colours, allowing for finer personalisation.

Enhancing User Expression

This expanded range reflects a growing trend among messaging platforms to prioritise user expression and interface customisation. With more options available, users can tailor their chat environment to suit their preferences and mood.

Privacy and User Control

Themes Visible Only to Users

An important aspect of the feature is privacy. The selected chat themes will remain visible only to the user applying them. Other participants in the conversation will not see any changes to the chat’s appearance.

Maintaining Conversation Consistency

This ensures that while users enjoy a personalised interface, the core conversation experience remains consistent for all participants—avoiding confusion or mismatched visuals across devices.

WhatsApp Chat themes feature Rollout Timeline and Availability

Currently Under Development

The chat themes feature is still under development and has not yet been released to the public. As with most WhatsApp updates, it is expected to be introduced first to beta users for testing.

Gradual Global Rollout Expected

Following successful testing, the feature will likely be rolled out in phases to all users. This approach allows WhatsApp to refine functionality and address potential issues before a full-scale launch.

WhatsApp’s Focus on Continuous Innovation

Aligning Web and Mobile Experiences

In recent years, WhatsApp has been steadily improving its web platform to match the capabilities of its mobile apps. Features such as multi-device support, improved calling options, and enhanced security have already been introduced.

Competing in the Messaging Space

With increasing competition from platforms like Telegram and Signal, continuous innovation remains crucial. Adding advanced customisation features like chat themes helps WhatsApp maintain its position as one of the world’s most widely used messaging services.

Conclusion

The introduction of chat themes on WhatsApp Web marks a significant step toward enhancing user personalisation and experience. With up to 49 colour options, individual chat customisation, and seamless integration across devices, the feature is set to make conversations more visually engaging and easier to manage. While still under development, it reflects WhatsApp’s broader strategy of aligning its web and mobile platforms while offering users greater control over their digital interactions.