WhatsApp for Android gets a new look

The WhatsApp for Android app has got a new design. While the redesigned app is not yet available to download from the Google Play store, you can get an early look at it by downloading the latest build (Version 2.12.41) of the app from the company's official site. The new app brings with it a new layout design and fresh icons, among other changes.

While some of the design changes are noticeable, others have undergone a subtle change. Here are 5 key changes the new version of WhatsApp comes with.

1. The taskbar on top is merged with the Calls, Chats and Contacts tabs with a green-coloured band running in the background. The new version has dropped the old familiar green for a new shade. Also, the taskbar (with WhatsApp and its icon on the left, and the search, compose message icons, and the three vertical dots on the right) collapses as you scroll down, leaving you with more room for viewing content.

2. While the emoji icons remain the same, the tray holding them has a different colour. The new version of WhatsApp has an emoji tray in a light shade of grey. It was earlier in black.

3. The little pointer arrows of the speech bubbles (containing the messages) have been tweaked a bit.

4. Tap on the attachment icon in a chat window, and you will see the list of options - Gallery, Photos, Video, Audio, Location, and Contact - popping up with transition. Also these icons have got a facelift with the black colour in the background changed to grey.

5. The recording button next to the message box now has a green background that highlights its presence. The message box also gets an overhaul.