WhatsApp testing Facebook Messenger-like notification bubbles for Android users

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new notification bubbles feature for Android, aimed at improving multitasking and making conversations more accessible without fully opening the app. The feature works similarly to Facebook Messenger’s chat heads, allowing users to reply to messages while continuing to use other apps.

Floating chat bubbles for faster replies

With this upcoming feature, a floating bubble will appear on the screen whenever a new message arrives. The bubble will display the contact or group profile picture along with a WhatsApp icon, and users will be able to tap it to open a small chat window. This will allow instant reading and replying without leaving the current app, making it easier to multitask during activities like watching videos, browsing, or gaming.

Designed to improve multitasking on Android

The feature is being developed to integrate closely with the Android notification system and improve how conversations are handled in real time. It is expected to make messaging faster and more seamless, especially for users who frequently switch between apps. However, some users may find floating bubbles distracting, so the feature will include an option to disable them in settings.

Rollout details and interface changes

WhatsApp is still refining the feature, and it is not yet available even for beta testers. It is expected to roll out first to a limited group before a wider release on supported Android devices, particularly Android 10 and above, with better stability on newer versions like Android 11 and later. Alongside this, WhatsApp is also reportedly working on a redesign of its top app bar, replacing the text-based header with the official logo and potentially preparing space for future interface updates.