WhatsApp ditches ‘Typing' indicator for animated bubble, users not happy

One user even said animation "purposely gives me anxiety"

By
Web Desk
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Whatsapp logo is seen in this illustration taken, August 22, 2022. — Reuters
Whatsapp logo is seen in this illustration taken, August 22, 2022. — Reuters

WhatsApp has rolled out a controversial change to its messaging interface, replacing the classic "typing..." message with a dynamic animated speech bubble.

According to Daily Mail, the update, which users say arrived with little notice, has sparked frustration among many, who find the new feature distracting and unnecessary.

The familiar "typing..." indicator, which used to appear at the top of chats, is now replaced by a moving chat bubble below the last message. While the change may seem subtle, some users are already voicing their discontent. 

On social media, complaints have poured in, with many likening the new feature to the typing animation seen in Apple’s iMessage, calling it "annoying" and "unhelpful." One user even said the animation "purposely gives me anxiety."

Despite the backlash, the update is expected to be available to all WhatsApp users in the coming days, signalling another shift in the app’s design—though not everyone is convinced it improves the experience.