WhatsApp, the messaging app of choice for billions of Android users globally, is taking significant steps to improve the user experience by reintroducing the tab swipe feature. This update comes in direct response to community feedback, underscoring WhatsApp's commitment to putting the needs and preferences of its users first.
WhatsApp, which allows users to intuitively navigate between chats, calls, status updates and community tabs on Android, was previously removed for compliance with the Material Design Guidelines 3. However, following a reconsideration, WhatsApp has decided to bring it back, thus marking an important step in the evolution of the application interface.
WhatsApp offers this improvement implemented in the latest beta update for Android and is available for users who install this update. Although initially removed with the introduction of the bottom navigation bar, the ability to swipe between tabs is now making a triumphant return, reflecting the company's willingness to listen and act on the input of its users.
WhatsApp: The very BIG change made with the Android Update
Interestingly, after being rolled back, this feature seems to be available not only for those using the beta version of the WhatsApp Android app, but also for some users who have downloaded the latest stable version from the Google Play Store, giving them the opportunity to experience both the bottom navigation bar and the ability to swipe between tabs.
WhatsApp, by reintroducing swipe gestures to the app's interface for Android, underlines a clear focus on improving accessibility and ease of use. The swipe gestures, being natural and intuitive, help users move easily between different sections of the app, mimicking the physical action of flipping through the pages of a book or magazine.
WhatsApp made a decision that reflects the company's willingness to adapt and improve the user experience with Android, based on their behavior and preferences, even if it means revisiting some previous design decisions.
WhatsApp proves once again that user feedback play a crucial role in the development and adaptation of the application's functionalities. So, reintroducing the ability to swipe between tabs is not only a technical improvement, but also a statement of WhatsApp's priorities – to provide an app that meets the real needs of its users, continuously improving the user experience.
