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WhatsApp New Features of the Past Week (September 9, 2025 - September 16, 2025)#

September 16, 2025

New features in WA

Every week, WhatsApp continues to evolve its functionality, releasing updates aimed at improving user experience and privacy. This week, the focus is on strengthening privacy with unique identifiers and new opportunities for personalizing communications. These steps are especially important for businesses looking to maintain the stability of customer communications in a changing digital ecosystem.

Contents#

1. Search for users by nicknames#

How it will work#

WhatsApp is developing a unique username system that will allow you to find contacts without having to know their phone number. Users will be able to create a unique nickname that meets certain requirements: minimum length, mandatory presence of letters, and special formatting rules to prevent confusion or impersonation.

Why it is needed#

The feature enhances privacy - now you can communicate without disclosing your phone number. This is especially useful for business accounts and public figures.

Availability#

Tested in WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.24.22.

2. The Close Friends feature for statuses on iOS#

How it will work#

Similar to Instagram, iOS users will be able to create lists of “close friends” to selectively display statuses in WhatsApp. This complements the recently implemented ability to publish statuses directly from the “Share” menu in other apps.

Why it is needed#

Increases content personalization and privacy - users share moments only with selected contacts.

Availability#

In development for WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.23.10.80.

3. Quickly save stickers to a collection on Android#

How it will work#

After creating a custom sticker in the updated editor (via sticker pack or image menu), users will be able to immediately save it to their collection, without having to send it to the chat first.

Why it is needed#

Simplifies the process of creating and organizing stickers, saves time and makes the creative process of creating a sticker more convenient.

Availability#

Tested in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android 2.25.24.23.

4. Unified visual style for WhatsApp Messenger and Business#

How it will work#

WhatsApp Business will get the same 20 color themes for chats as the regular version of the app. Users will be able to choose a common style for all chats or customize individual themes for different conversations, combining them with wallpapers.

Why it is needed#

Ensures uniformity of the visual experience between the two versions of the app, which is especially important for brands using Business accounts.

Availability#

Implemented in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android 2.25.24.24.

5. A single call menu instead of separate buttons#

How it will work#

Separate buttons for voice and video calls will be replaced by a single button that opens a menu with a choice of call type. This requires additional confirmation of the choice, reducing the risk of accidental calls.

Why it is needed#

Simplifies the interface, makes the process of initiating calls more intuitive and consistent across platforms.

Availability#

Tested in WhatsApp for iOS version 25.23.82 and already available in beta versions of Android.

6. New iOS 26 Liquid Glass Design#

How it will work#

WhatsApp is undergoing an adaptation to the Liquid Glass design system introduced in iOS 26. The interface will become more transparent, “glassy” and dynamic - elements will respond to light, movement and interaction, while maintaining readability and accessibility.

Why it is needed#

Provides a more immersive and visually pleasing user experience that meets the standards of iOS 26.

Accessibility#

Developed in the WhatsApp beta version for iOS 25.24.10.70.

Conclusion#

WhatsApp's latest updates focus on personalization, privacy, and visual innovations. The introduction of nickname search and "close friends" lists gives users more control over their digital footprint, while a single call menu and an updated design for iOS 26 make the interface more convenient and modern.

We at GREEN-API monitor all WhatsApp updates to provide you with the latest news and solutions for automating your business processes. Stay tuned to stay up to date with all the latest events!