WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.36: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.17.36.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on an accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors, and it will be available in a future update!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Increased contrast for accessibility settings |
| Status? | Under development |
| Availability? | WhatsApp is currently developing an accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors, which is expected to be released in a future update. |
| I've installed the update, but this feature isn't available. Why? | This feature is currently in development and not yet available for beta testing. In the meantime, you can read this article for a sneak peek. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp launches official iPad compatible app on the App Store, offering native tablet experience! |
INCREASED CONTRAST - ACCESSIBILITY SETTINGS
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.15.22 update, we announced that a feature to manage accessibility settings focused on increased contrast was under development. This new setting is part of a broader initiative to enhance accessibility within the app, offering users more control over how interface elements appear to suit their individual visual needs. The feature would allow users to boost color contrast between foreground and background elements, improving the clarity of text, icons, and buttons, especially for those with visual impairments or in challenging lighting conditions. Although this feature is still in development, WhatsApp appears to be actively refining accessibility settings ahead of its official beta release, aiming to provide users with a more optimized experience from the outset. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.36 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on an accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors!
As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of a feature that will allow users to make interface elements more visible by increasing color contrast, scheduled for release in a future update. As previously announced, WhatsApp had planned to introduce a dedicated option to manage contrast for various color settings within the app. However, it now appears that the current development is specifically focused on button colors, which are made darker when using the light theme. This change will apply to key components such as toggles and floating action buttons located across the main tabs of the application.
Darkening buttons in light mode significantly improves accessibility, especially for users with visual impairments, including low vision or color sensitivity. Increased contrast helps make interactive elements more distinguishable from the background, reducing eye strain and making the interface easier to navigate. It also minimizes the risk of users with visual impairments missing important actions or controls, which is crucial for ensuring an inclusive user experience.
It's worth noting that a darker accent color can be visually appealing even for users without specific accessibility needs. Some may prefer a more modern look compared to the default green color used by WhatsApp. This may give users more freedom to personalize the app according to their aesthetic preferences. A darker accent may create a more refined visual experience, which aligns with contemporary design trends seen across other apps. It also helps certain interface elements stand out more clearly, enhancing overall visual clarity and giving users a sense of increased control over the appearance of the app.
An accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors is under development and it will be available in a future update. We will keep you updated with an additional article as soon as we have more details to share about this feature.
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