WhatsApp Beta for iOS Introduces Redesigned Settings with Cover Photo Feature
WhatsApp has unveiled a significant update in its latest iOS beta version 26.5.10.76, introducing a revamped Settings page that now features a cover photo layout. This enhancement is currently accessible to users enrolled in the TestFlight beta program. The primary objective of this redesign is to modernize the user interface and lay the groundwork for forthcoming profile customization capabilities.
Visual Enhancements in the Settings Interface
The most noticeable change in this update is the addition of a prominent header image at the top of the Settings screen, serving as a default cover photo. While the current version does not permit users to upload their own cover photos, this design shift indicates that such a feature may be on the horizon. This strategic move aligns with WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to offer users more personalized experiences within the app.
The redesign also alters the presentation of profile information. Previously, the profile picture was confined to a small cell; now, it is centrally positioned on the screen, resulting in a cleaner and more contemporary appearance. Additionally, some users have observed modifications in the tab bar, where the Settings label has been replaced with You, accompanied by the user’s profile picture icon. This adjustment aims to provide clearer identification of the active account, particularly beneficial for individuals managing multiple accounts.
Integration with Multi-Account Support
In recent developments, WhatsApp has introduced support for multiple accounts within the same application. With this feature, when users switch between accounts, the profile icon in the tab bar updates accordingly. This dynamic change assists users in easily recognizing which account is currently active, thereby reducing potential confusion.
Gradual Rollout and User Feedback
The redesigned Settings page with the cover photo feature is being gradually rolled out to select beta testers who have installed WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.5.10.76 via TestFlight. As is customary with beta releases, WhatsApp is implementing this feature incrementally to monitor its performance and gather user feedback before a broader release. It is anticipated that more users will gain access to this feature in the coming weeks.
Contextualizing the Update
This update is part of WhatsApp’s broader initiative to enhance user experience through visual and functional improvements. For instance, in October 2025, WhatsApp began rolling out the Liquid Glass design for iOS users, marking one of the most significant visual overhauls in the app’s history. This design introduced a translucent, layered texture that reacts to background colors and motion, aligning WhatsApp more closely with Apple’s aesthetic shifts in iOS 18 and iOS 26.
Furthermore, WhatsApp has been actively expanding its feature set to include more personalized and interactive elements. In August 2025, the company launched the Writing Help feature for iOS, which provides AI-generated suggestions to refine messages before sending them. This tool allows users to improve clarity, tone, or grammar, making message composition more efficient and effective.
In September 2025, WhatsApp addressed a long-standing user request by enabling the sending of Live Photos on iOS. This feature allows users to share moments that include motion and sound, adding a dynamic element to conversations. Previously, users had to convert Live Photos to videos or GIFs before sending them; the update streamlined this process, enhancing the multimedia sharing experience.
Additionally, in June 2025, WhatsApp began working on introducing usernames, providing users with an alternative identity on the platform. This feature allows users to connect and communicate without sharing their phone numbers, offering increased privacy and control over personal information. Usernames are expected to function similarly to handles on other platforms, enabling more anonymous or temporary interactions.
Implications for Users
The introduction of the redesigned Settings page with a cover photo is more than a mere aesthetic enhancement; it signifies WhatsApp’s commitment to providing a more personalized and user-centric experience. By allowing users to customize their profiles further, WhatsApp is catering to the growing demand for individuality and self-expression within digital communication platforms.
Moreover, these updates reflect WhatsApp’s responsiveness to user feedback and its dedication to staying competitive in the rapidly evolving messaging app landscape. As users increasingly seek platforms that offer both functionality and personalization, WhatsApp’s continuous improvements position it favorably among its peers.
Looking Ahead
As WhatsApp continues to test and refine these new features, users can anticipate a more engaging and customizable experience. The gradual rollout strategy ensures that any potential issues are addressed promptly, maintaining the app’s reliability and performance. Users interested in exploring these features ahead of the general release can consider joining the TestFlight beta program, keeping in mind that beta versions may contain bugs or unfinished elements.
In conclusion, the redesigned Settings page with the cover photo feature is a testament to WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience through thoughtful design and functionality. As the feature becomes more widely available, it is expected to be well-received by users seeking greater personalization in their digital interactions.
