WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.1.10.71: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new iOS update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 26.1.10.71.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a feature that introduces cover photos for personal profiles, and it will be available in a future update!
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature: | Cover photo |
| 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 beta for iOS 26.1.10.70: what's new? WhatsApp is working on a feature that brings the username functionality to chats! |
WhatsApp is developing cover photos for the iOS app
In the post about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.32.2 update, we announced that a feature that lets users set a cover photo is under development. This functionality will enable users to add a personalized banner image at the top of their profile, enhancing visual identity beyond the profile photo. The cover photo will be visible when someone opens a profile, creating a more expressive and engaging first impression. With this change, the ability to set a cover photo will no longer be limited to business accounts, since businesses already have access to this option on their profiles. The feature is designed to be optional and easy to update, allowing users to refresh their look whenever they want.
It appears that WhatsApp now intends to bring the same cover photo customization to iOS users in the future, ensuring a consistent profile experience across both platforms. This suggests that WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a new way even for iOS users to personalize their profiles through customizable cover images. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.1.10.71 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a feature that introduces cover photos for personal profiles!
As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is developing a dedicated section within the profile interface where users will be able to choose their cover photo, scheduled for release in a future update. The layout suggests that the cover image will sit above existing profile details, maintaining a clean structure while adding a strong visual element. This approach aligns with the familiar design language already used for business profiles, adapted carefully to fit personal accounts.
This option is already available on WhatsApp Business, where businesses can set a cover photo to highlight their brand or share visual information at the top of their profile. In contrast, users of WhatsApp Messenger currently do not have access to any feature that allows them to add a cover image to their personal profile. The feature in development aims to close this gap by extending cover photo support to standard accounts as well. Once it is released, all users will be able to choose a cover photo regardless of whether they use a business account or a personal one.
The process of selecting a cover photo is expected to be straightforward and integrated into the profile editing flow. Users will have the ability to select an image from their photo library, similar to WhatsApp Business, and can reposition or replace it whenever they wish. The cover photo will remain visible both when viewing a contact's profile and when accessing personal account settings. This ensures that the customization remains consistently accessible throughout the app.
From a usability perspective, cover photos will give users greater freedom to visually express themselves without changing core account details. A single image can communicate mood, personal interests, or style. At the same time, the profile photo remains focused on clearly identifying the user. This additional layer of customization becomes increasingly valuable as profiles gain more visibility within the app.
With WhatsApp planning to roll out usernames later this year, cover photos act as a complementary feature that enhances profile recognition. By adding a visual element at the top of profiles, users can create a more distinctive presence that pairs naturally with their username. This will also make it easier for others to identify contacts at a glance, especially in chats with unknown users. In this way, cover photos will help profiles feel more complete and visually engaging ahead of the username launch.
The feature that introduces cover photos for personal profiles is still under development and expected to arrive in a future update. WhatsApp is fine-tuning how this visual element will integrate with the existing profile layout to ensure it feels natural and unobtrusive. Once available, the cover photo will appear at the top of a user’s profile, adding a new layer of visual context beyond the profile picture. This change is designed to enhance how profiles are presented without altering core account information or contact interactions.
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