WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.34.11: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.34.11.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that suggests stickers as users type their messages, and it's available to some beta testers!

WhatsApp Makes it Easier to Search for Stickers

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.13.9 update, we announced that a feature to manage sticker suggestions was under development. This functionality introduces a new toggle that allows users to control whether automatic sticker suggestions appear as they type. When the option is enabled, WhatsApp will display a dedicated sticker tray above the keyboard, showing stickers related to the emojis or text entered in the chat bar. Disabling the toggle removes these suggestions entirely, restoring the standard typing interface.

It appears that WhatsApp is now testing this feature with the public, and some beta testers have already reported that the toggle for managing sticker suggestions is available on their devices. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.34.11 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that suggests stickers as users type their messages!

Introducing the New Sticker Suggestion Feature

With the latest updates, some beta testers can now see suggested stickers appear within the chat bar as they begin typing. This feature is designed to provide instant visual stickers that match the emoji being entered. It allows users to quickly select expressive stickers without needing to open the full sticker keyboard. By tapping on the suggestion, WhatsApp will automatically send the sticker, making the process faster.

How Emoji Associations Determine Which Stickers Are Suggested

Only static and animated stickers that have emoji assigned during their creation process are eligible to appear as suggestions. Some third-party apps allow creators to associate up to three different emojis with a single sticker to improve accuracy. These emoji associations must visually and contextually represent the sticker's meaning to ensure relevant matches. For example, if a sticker shows a waving animation, the corresponding waving emoji should be assigned.

This system allows users to quickly locate stickers in the sticker keyboard by simply typing the related emoji in the search bar. It also ensures that stickers appear more easily when users rely on emoji-based browsing. Now, these associations play an additional role by enabling real-time sticker suggestions as users type. This creates a streamlined way to access stickers that best match the conversation.

Limitations of WhatsApp's Built-in Sticker Maker

WhatsApp's current sticker maker tool does not support adding emoji associations to stickers created directly within the app. This means that none of the stickers users generate through WhatsApp's editor will appear as suggestions. Instead, only stickers created in third-party apps with emoji associations will be eligible for automatic suggestions. As a result, users who strictly rely on WhatsApp's built-in tool may not experience the full potential of this feature.

WhatsApp Stickers From Official Store Fully Support Suggestions

All stickers available in the official WhatsApp sticker store already include predefined emoji associations. This ensures that every sticker pack downloaded from the store works seamlessly with the new suggestion feature. Users can therefore test and enjoy the feature even if they do not have stickers created through third-party apps. This guarantees broad compatibility for anyone exploring WhatsApp's expanding sticker ecosystem.

Benefits of the Sticker Suggestion Feature

The sticker suggestion feature makes it easier for users to react in a fun way without stopping to hunt through sticker packs. Instead of scrolling endlessly, a few emojis are often enough to bring up something that fits the moment. You might even see stickers you forgot you had, because they pop up right when they match the emoji you're typing. This is especially helpful if you've collected a lot of packs over time and your library is a bit chaotic.

Since stickers are tied to specific emojis, everything feels a bit more organized and predictable. You type an emoji that represents how you feel, and you immediately get stickers that reflect the same idea. People who use stickers all the time can reply more quickly and keep the conversation flowing instead of pausing to search. In the end, chats feel more lively and natural, because sticker suggestions are always just one tap away.

How to Disable WhatsApp Sticker Suggestions Anytime

Users have full control over this feature, so they can decide whether they want sticker suggestions to appear while typing emojis. If they prefer not to receive any suggestions, it is possible to disable the option at any time from WhatsApp Settings > Chats. In this section, WhatsApp includes a dedicated toggle that manages sticker suggestions. Turning it off immediately restores a more traditional typing experience without automatic sticker prompts.

Potential for Future Support Within WhatsApp’s Sticker Maker

Although WhatsApp does not currently support emoji associations for stickers created inside the app, this may change in the future. WhatsApp is gradually integrating more advanced editing tools that were once available only in third-party applications. This suggests that emoji association capabilities could be added at a later stage. While not under development now, it remains a realistic possibility as WhatsApp continues to expand its sticker creation options.

Sticker Suggestion Feature is Rolling out on Android Beta

The feature that suggests stickers as users type their messages is available to some beta testers, and it's rolling out to more users over the coming weeks. This gradual release will allow WhatsApp to gather valuable feedback and fine-tune the experience before expanding it further. This early release phase also allows users to try the feature before it becomes more widely available. As the rollout progresses, more users are expected to access and explore the new functionality.

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