WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.29.10.72: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new iOS update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 25.29.10.72.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings a sidebar to the iPad user interface, and it will be available in a future update!
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Sidebar for iPad app |
| Status: | Under development |
| Availability info: | 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 for iOS Liquid Glass Update Now Available with a Modern Translucent Design! |
WhatsApp Beta Updates Bring Improved Navigation on iPad
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.13.10.74 update, we announced that a feature to bring a communities tab to the iPad app was available. With the dedicated tab, iPad users finally have direct access to all their communities in one place, streamlining both navigation and management. Additionally, the update introduced the ability to create and manage communities directly from the iPad, a capability that was previously restricted to main devices such as iPhones. This means that users can now not only browse and participate in their existing communities but also set up new ones, manage their structure, and oversee group conversations without switching devices.
It seems that WhatsApp aims to further improve navigation across different tabs by introducing a new dedicated interface, making it easier for users to switch between sections and access their conversations more efficiently. These updates are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the overall user experience and improve navigation consistency across devices. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.29.10.72 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings a sidebar to the iPad user interface!
WhatsApp is Developing a Mac-Style Sidebar for the iPad App
WhatsApp is currently exploring a feature that adds a new sidebar to the iPad interface, scheduled for release in a future update. The new sidebar mirrors the design already available on the WhatsApp app for Mac, where it has proven to be very practical. On WhatsApp for Mac, the sidebar organizes different tabs into a single, easily accessible column on the left side of the screen. This design makes navigation smoother while also feeling more natural on larger displays. Bringing the same approach to the iPad will also ensure a more consistent experience across devices.
Why WhatsApp's Current iPad Layout Feels Unbalanced and How a Sidebar Fixes It
At the moment, WhatsApp for iPad uses a compact tab bar at the bottom of the screen, a layout designed primarily for iPhones. While it works adequately on smaller devices, on the iPad's larger screen the tab bar remains very narrow, taking up only a small portion of the width. Users have to focus on one small area at the bottom, which can make navigation less efficient and the overall interface feel less balanced on a bigger screen. By contrast, a vertical sidebar makes better use of the iPad's display, providing quick access to multiple sections without compromising the layout.
WhatsApp's New iPad Sidebar: A Step Toward Better Design and Future Expansion
The introduction of a sidebar is therefore not just a matter of convenience but also of visual balance. With the iPad's wider screen space, a left-hand sidebar helps distribute elements in a way that feels more refined and user-friendly. By moving beyond the limitations of the bottom tab bar, this feature aims to streamline navigation, make important sections more accessible, and provide a layout that fully leverages the iPad's larger display. With the introduction of a dedicated sidebar for the iPad app, WhatsApp aims to offer a more intuitive and efficient experience for iPad users in the future.
Another important aspect is future expansion. While the sidebar currently houses essential tabs such as Chats, Calls, Communities, and Settings, WhatsApp can easily build on this structure to introduce new shortcuts and features. For example, the sidebar could later include direct links or quick access to upcoming new functionalities, laying the foundation for broader feature development. This flexibility will ensure that the sidebar can evolve alongside WhatsApp's growing set of tools and capabilities.
Release Timeline and Ongoing Improvements for the iPad Sidebar
The new sidebar for WhatsApp on iPad is currently in development and it is expected to be rolled out in a future update. As the feature is still being refined, WhatsApp may implement additional tweaks and enhancements before its official release. This means we may provide further updates as new changes or improvements are spotted in upcoming beta versions. This allows users to stay informed about the progress and final rollout of the sidebar. At present, no specific release date has been announced, as it will depend on how development and testing proceed. Stay tuned and check back regularly on this website to be among the first to experience the new iPad sidebar.
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