The latest WhatsApp update has begun rolling out via the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the app to version 2.25.11.10 for Android devices.
One of the key highlights of this update is the introduction of a new feature that allows users to manage chat message animations. Currently being tested with a select group of beta users, this feature is designed to offer more control over how animated content appears in conversations, enhancing the overall chat experience.
Take a closer look at the new chat animation settings introduced in WhatsApp Beta 2.25.11.10 and explore how you can take full control of your animated messages.
What Are Chat Animation Controls in WhatsApp?
Chat animation controls are a new setting that allows users to turn chat screen animations on or off when sending and receiving messages. While animations have always been part of WhatsApp’s modern UI, users previously had no direct control over them. This new feature brings a level of customization, particularly useful for:
- Improving performance on older devices
- Saving battery
- Offering a smoother or simpler chat interface for accessibility purposes
New Feature: Chat Message Animations
As previously highlighted during the development of WhatsApp Beta version 2.25.1.10, the chat message animations feature has now entered public testing.
With this update, users can now individually manage how emojis, stickers, and GIFs behave in chats choosing whether or not they animate. This added control is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a more static and less visually distracting messaging experience, especially during active group chats where animations can quickly become overwhelming.
A Look at the New Settings Section
Some of this beta release’s users will also see a new section within the WhatsApp settings that lets you adjust how different kinds of animated content behave in chat. These include:
- Animated Emojis
- Animated Stickers
- GIFs
Each type has a toggle, giving more flexibility and control than an all-in-one switch.
How the New Options Work
The new update introduces detailed control over different types of animated content in chats, including Lottie-based emojis, stickers, and GIFs:
Lottie-Based Emojis: Users now have the option to turn off animations for the newly introduced Lottie-style emojis. When turned off, these emojis appear static within chats, creating a cleaner, more minimalist messaging environment.
Stickers: You can now decide which stickers, especially animated ones, should play automatically. When sticker animations are disabled, they remain still during conversations and only animate when tapped. This is particularly useful during fast-paced group chats, helping reduce on-screen motion.
GIFs: Animated GIFs will no longer autoplay if you choose to disable them. Instead, users must tap the GIF to view it in motion. This setting is ideal for those who want to minimize visual distractions or reduce data usage.
Why Three Separate Toggles?
WhatsApp planned to introduce a single toggle to turn off all chat animations at once. However, after gathering user feedback and conducting internal testing, the developers opted for a more flexible, user-friendly approach.
Instead of an all-or-nothing switch, WhatsApp now offers three separate controls for emojis, stickers, and GIFs allowing users to tailor their experience with greater precision.
For instance, if you enjoy viewing animated GIFs but find animated emojis distracting, you can turn off emoji animations without affecting the others. This modular system empowers users to customize their chats to match their preferences, offering a more personalized and comfortable messaging experience.
Who Gets the Feature?
If you’re not seeing the new chat animation settings, even after updating to WhatsApp Beta version 2.25.11.10, don’t worry you’re not alone. The feature is currently being rolled out to a limited group of beta testers, meaning it may not be available to everyone just yet.
Interestingly, some users on earlier beta versions have also reported seeing the new animation controls, suggesting that a server-side rollout is also taking place in parallel with the app update.
If you’ve installed the latest beta but the animation settings haven’t appeared, it likely means the feature hasn’t been activated for your account yet. This kind of staggered rollout is typical in beta testing phases, as it allows WhatsApp to closely monitor performance, gather user feedback, and ensure a smooth experience before a wider release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chat animation controls in WhatsApp Beta 2.25.11.10?
Chat animation controls are a new feature introduced in WhatsApp Beta 2.25.11.10 that allows users to turn animations on or off within the chat interface. These animations typically include smooth transitions when sending or receiving messages. With this update, users gain more control over the app’s visual behavior.
Is the chat animation feature available for iPhone (iOS) users?
As of now, the chat animation controls are only available to Android beta testers. There is no official confirmation on when this feature will be released for iOS users, but it may arrive in future beta builds for iPhone.
Do chat animation settings affect message delivery or notifications?
No, the chat animation setting only affects visual transitions within the chat screen. Message delivery, typing indicators, and notifications remain unaffected whether the feature is on or off.
Can I access this feature in the stable version of WhatsApp?
Currently, chat animation controls are exclusive to WhatsApp Beta version 2.25.11.10 on Android. They have not yet been rolled out to the stable version. Once tested and refined, they may become available in a future public release.
What other features are included in WhatsApp Beta 2.25.11.10?
Besides the chat animation controls, the WhatsApp Beta 2.25.11.10 update focuses mainly on UI/UX improvements and performance optimizations. This particular build did not introduce significant functional changes.
Conclusion
The WhatsApp Beta 2.25.11.10 update might not make headlines like message editing or multi-device sync. Still, chat animation controls show the app’s ongoing commitment to user comfort, device compatibility, and refined power.
This new feature could significantly improve daily messaging experiences for those who value performance and simplicity or for users with older smartphones.
