WhatsApp is launching a festive update to make New Year messaging, calls, and Status updates more fun and expressive. The update introduces a 2026 animated sticker pack, video call effects, confetti reactions, and animated Status layouts to help users celebrate and connect in creative ways.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Story about: | New Festive features |
| Status: | Rolling out |
| Compatibility: | The latest versions of WhatsApp for Android and iOS are designated as compatible updates. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp is working on a feature to manage notifications for voice and video calls on the Web! |
WhatsApp Announces Festive Features to Celebrate 2026
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.1.4 update, we announced that a feature that allows users to celebrate 2026 with a special Lottie sticker is available. This update introduces a dedicated animated 2026 sticker that can be easily shared in both individual and group chats to add a festive tone to conversations. Users who have access to the feature can also place the 2026 sticker inside status layouts, making their New Year updates more visually engaging and thematic. Within the status editor, the sticker integrates naturally with layout templates, helping users highlight the transition into 2026 alongside photos or videos. This can be seen as a cohesive and expressive way for users to welcome the new year across the app.
On New Year's Day, when WhatsApp sees its highest traffic, these stickers may offer an extra layer of celebration, making messages and status updates feel more special. On a regular day, WhatsApp handles over 100 billion messages and 2 billion calls, but WhatsApp says that the twenty-four hours when the world welcomes a new year consistently top these charts. To further highlight these seasonal touches in the final days of the year, WhatsApp shared a final roundup in a new blog post to make everyone aware of how the update adds more expressive tools that help users share special moments with their contacts.
Celebrate 2026 with WhatsApp's Festive Sticker Pack
In their blog post, WhatsApp announced that a special 2026 sticker pack is available, helping users share their joy as the new year begins. The animated stickers makes conversations feel more lively and celebratory. Users can send these stickers in individual chats, group messages, and even in Status updates. They provide a playful, visually engaging way to express excitement for the year ahead. With the sticker pack available throughout the holiday, everyone can join in the celebration no matter where they are.
Add Sparkle to Video Calls with Festive Effects
WhatsApp has added new video call effects that make celebrations feel even more immersive. By tapping the effects icon during a video call, users can add fireworks, confetti, and star animations that light up the screen. These effects create a sense of shared excitement, even when friends and family are far apart. They are perfect for ringing in the New Year in a fun, visually engaging way. Small touches like these can make video calls feel more connected and memorable.
Express Yourself with Animated Confetti Reactions
WhatsApp has also brought back animated confetti reactions to brighten up messages. When users react with the confetti emoji, a festive animation spreads across the chat, adding a lively, celebratory element. These reactions make conversations more interactive and fun. They are especially popular in group chats where multiple people are sharing excitement at the same time. This feature currently works with the following emojis: Party Popper, Partying Face, Confetti Ball, Clinking Glasses, and Bottle with Popping Cork.
Animated Stickers in Status Updates for the First Time
For the first time, WhatsApp has introduced animated stickers in Status updates. Users can now use a special 2026 layout combined with an animated sticker to make their updates more visually appealing. This feature is ideal for sharing moments from parties, family gatherings, or quiet reflections on the year past. It allows people to express themselves creatively, combining photos, videos, and stickers in one cohesive post. Animated Status updates make it easier to highlight celebrations and share joy with everyone on a user's contact list.
Planning New Year's Events Made Simple
WhatsApp has also provided tips for smoother New Year's planning in group chats. Users can create events and pin them to the top of the chat to keep everyone on the same page. Polls can help decide food, drinks, and activities, while live location sharing ensures guests can find their way to the party safely. Video and voice notes allow friends who can't attend in person to feel involved and connected. These tools make group coordination easy, helping celebrations run smoothly and ensuring no one misses out.
Celebrating the New Year with New Features
These new features make celebrating the New Year with friends and family even more fun and personal. Animated stickers, video call effects, and lively Status updates add playful touches that bring conversations to life. Even simple chats feel more special when you can share excitement in creative ways. WhatsApp helps people stay close no matter where they are, making it easier to connect, laugh, and celebrate together. The official blog post ends with a heartfelt New Year greeting from the WhatsApp team, wishing everyone a joyful start to the year.
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