WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.20: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.18.20.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out an accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors, and it's available to some beta testers!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.36 update, we announced that a feature that allows users to manage accessibility settings was under development. This feature focuses on enhancing interface visibility by increasing color contrast, particularly through the darkening of button colors when using the light theme. By adjusting the visual presentation of key UI elements like toggles and floating action buttons, WhatsApp aims to improve usability for those users with visual impairments while reducing eye strain. It appears that WhatsApp is now testing this feature with the public, as some beta testers have reported the availability of new accessibility settings. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.20 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out an accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can explore a new feature that allows them to manage certain accessibility options directly from the app settings. This new page consolidates some features aimed at making the app more inclusive and easier to use for everyone. Among the new options, users can find a setting that allows them to manage the animations of chat messages. As previously reported in the article covering the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.11.10 update, this setting lets users choose whether to allow animations for elements like GIFs, stickers, and emojis.

This level of customization is especially helpful for users who may be sensitive to motion or prefer a more static interface. By giving users the ability to control animated elements, WhatsApp offers greater flexibility and comfort, especially for those who find movement on screen distracting or overwhelming. This setting was previously located in another section of the app settings, but WhatsApp is now moving it into the newly introduced accessibility page for easier access and better organization.

In the same section, users can now also enable a new feature that darkens button colors when using the light theme. This includes key elements such as toggles and floating action buttons across the main tabs of the application. Increasing the contrast of these components makes them easier to distinguish from the background, which is essential for users with low vision or color perception difficulties. High-contrast buttons help users quickly identify interactive elements, improving navigation and making it less likely that important actions will be overlooked.

An accessibility feature that increases contrast by darkening key interface colors is available to some beta testers who install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store, and it is rolling out to even more people over the coming weeks.

Stay up-to-date on WhatsApp news by following WABetaInfo on X. You can also discover other new features for WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web/Desktop, and Windows.

Do you like this news? Please, let us know on X: we love hearing your feedback! If you're curious to see where you can find WABetaInfo, there is a dedicated page where you can discover our services.
In addition, we have set up a Discord Server where you can chat with other people, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest announcements from WABetaInfo.