WhatsApp Introduces Mac-Inspired Sidebar in iPad Redesign

Design Evolution: From iOS

WhatsApp is rolling out a redesigned interface for its iPad app, featuring a new sidebar reminiscent of macOS. The update, part of the company’s Liquid Glass visual overhaul, follows months of beta testing and marks a significant shift in how users navigate the platform on larger screens. The changes aim to streamline multitasking and improve overall usability for tablet users.

The redesign, first tested in October for iOS, now extends to iPad after refining the layout and functionality. The sidebar replaces the previous bottom navigation bar, offering quick access to chats, calls, and settings. WhatsApp has not disclosed a full rollout timeline, but the update is being phased in gradually to beta testers. The move aligns with Apple’s own Liquid Glass design language, which emphasizes transparency and fluidity across its operating systems.

The Liquid Glass project began as an experimental update for i Phones, focusing on a minimalist aesthetic. However, adapting the design to iPad’s larger screen required rethinking navigation. The sidebar draws inspiration from Mac applications, allowing users to manage multiple conversations without switching screens. Early beta feedback highlighted smoother transitions between chat threads and improved visibility of contact lists. WhatsApp’s engineering team emphasized that the redesign reduces clutter, a common complaint among heavy iPad users.

How Does the New Interface Improve User Experience?

The sidebar dynamically adjusts based on user activity. For example, opening a chat expands the sidebar to show message history, while tapping a call button reveals recent contacts. This contextual adaptation mirrors macOS’s approach to window management. Additionally, the redesign incorporates subtle animations and transparency effects that align with Apple’s vision for its ecosystem. Some users have noted that the new layout feels more „at home” on i Pads compared to the previous mobile-centric design.

WhatsApp has not ruled out further refinements. The company hinted at future updates that could integrate more Mac-like features, such as window resizing or multi-window support. For now, the focus remains on stabilizing the current changes and addressing beta-reported bugs.

When will the redesigned iPad interface be available to all users? WhatsApp has not announced a full release date. The update is currently rolling out to beta testers, with a broader launch expected in the coming months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the new sidebar replace all existing navigation elements? Yes, the sidebar consolidates the bottom navigation bar and provides direct access to core features like chats, calls, and settings.

What is Liquid Glass, and how does it affect WhatsApp’s design? Liquid Glass is Apple’s design initiative emphasizing transparency, fluidity, and adaptive interfaces. WhatsApp’s redesign incorporates these principles to create a cohesive experience across iOS and macOS.

The redesign reflects WhatsApp’s broader strategy to optimize its app for diverse devices, ensuring consistency with Apple’s evolving ecosystem. User feedback will likely shape future iterations, balancing innovation with the platform’s simplicity.