WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.35.5: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.35.5.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that allows a limited group of users to access the beta version, and it will be available in a future update!

WhatsApp Provides Early Access to New Features Through Beta Programs

In the article about the WhatsApp Web 2.2318.11 update, we announced that an experimental feature to allow users to join the beta program was available. This feature lets users manually sign up for the WhatsApp Web beta directly from the web interface. To access it, open WhatsApp Web, link your phone by scanning the QR code, and navigate to the Help section. If the option is available for your account, you will see a new entry allowing you to join the beta program. Once you join, WhatsApp will start enabling new experimental features for your session before they are released to everyone else, and switch to the beta version.

It appears that WhatsApp is planning to introduce a similar functionality to the Android app, ensuring a consistent experience across different platforms. This addition would allow some mobile users to join the beta program directly within the application, just like on WhatsApp Web. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.35.5 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that allows a limited group of users to access the beta version!

Beta Switch Feature Will Simplify Access to the Latest WhatsApp Updates

WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users on the stable version to try out the beta version seamlessly, scheduled for release in a future update. This means the app will automatically check for beta updates and switch to them when available. Users who choose to switch to the beta version directly within the app will no longer need to manually download updates from the Play Store, as updates will be applied automatically in the background. This approach ensures that more users can experience new features and improvements as soon as they are released.

Same Beta Experience as Existing Testers

There will be no difference from the beta version that current testers are using, as both will be identical, including the build number. Every feature, bug fix, and improvement will be synchronized across both groups. This guarantees a consistent experience regardless of whether a user joined via the new switch feature or the traditional beta program. It also ensures that all feedback from users will reflect the same software version.

Beta testers may try to get this feature once it becomes available, but it will be reserved for users on the stable release. Switching manually to the stable version does not guarantee that the option will appear in the future. Availability will always depend on private conditions set by WhatsApp. It's also important to note that the beta offered through this feature will be exactly the same as the one available through the Play Store.

How This Differs from WhatsApp Web Beta Access

Both the upcoming Android feature and WhatsApp Web beta allow users to switch from the stable version to the beta version. This ensures users always have the latest versions installed, including bug fixes, stability improvements, and early access to new features. The main principle is identical: give users a smoother path to experience upcoming updates. On Android, WhatsApp will let some users switch to the beta version directly from the app settings, while Web requires signing up through the help section.

Both systems are designed to collect user feedback efficiently to improve the application. Users will benefit from early feature access without waiting for the next official release. WhatsApp Web beta is available for all users who choose to join, making it widely accessible. The new Android switch functionality operates in a similar way, but it includes more limitations.

Limited Availability of the Beta Switch on Android

While the WhatsApp Web beta is available to all users, the Android beta switch will be much more restricted. It seems it will only be offered to a select number of stable-version users. The reasons behind this limitation are not fully known but likely depend on the type of testing WhatsApp intends to conduct. Often, features are released following specific patterns, such as region or active functionalities. The same approach will apply here, offering the feature only to users meeting certain conditions currently undisclosed.

Limiting access also reduces the risk of widespread bugs affecting many users and allows WhatsApp to monitor early feedback more effectively. By controlling availability, WhatsApp ensures stability for the selected users. This careful rollout helps maintain a smooth experience for those who have access. As a result, it shouldn't be surprising if this feature will never become available on your account due to its very limited rollout.

Expanding Beta Access Without Play Store Limits

This feature will enable more users to try the beta version, though the total number remains limited. Direct beta access through the Play Store is sometimes impossible because Google restricts programs to 10,000 participants. Users wanting to test the beta when the program is full often rely on alternative sources. In the future, this new switch feature will allow a select group of users to manage updates directly through WhatsApp.

This functionality will enable some users to rely less on third-party downloads while enhancing security, ensuring that the app automatically downloads an authentic and verified version. Early adopters will benefit from the convenience of automatic beta updates. The system ensures that users are always on the same version as official beta testers. Access will remain restricted to this limited group, though it may change over time.

Release Timeline for Beta Switch on WhatsApp for Android

The feature that allows a limited group of users to access the beta version is currently under development, and it will be available in a future update. Its availability will be limited to a small group of users. Users are encouraged to check the app periodically for updates and new options. Make sure to check this website regularly to see when WhatsApp begins rolling out the beta feature to users.

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