WhatsApp has announced a set of New Year-themed features aimed at helping users welcome 2026 while staying connected with friends and family across the world. The company said New Year’s remains its biggest day annually, consistently setting new records for messages and calls made on the platform.
New Year 2026 festive features on WhatsApp
To mark the arrival of 2026, WhatsApp has introduced several limited-period features that add a festive layer to conversations. One of the key additions is a dedicated 2026 sticker pack, allowing users to share New Year greetings directly in personal and group chats.
WhatsApp has also rolled out new video call effects. During a video call, users can tap the effects option to activate celebratory visuals such as fireworks, confetti, and star animations that appear on screen while talking to friends and family.
In addition, the platform is bringing back animated confetti reactions. When users react to messages using the confetti emoji, a special animation appears, adding a visual cue to celebratory messages and wishes exchanged in chats.
Animated Status updates introduced
For the first time, WhatsApp is introducing animated stickers for Status updates. Users can select a special 2026-themed layout and add animated stickers to share New Year wishes with their contacts. This update expands the creative options available on Status, which is often used to broadcast greetings to a wider audience without sending individual messages.
Group chat tools for New Year planning
WhatsApp has also highlighted features designed to make New Year planning easier in group chats. Users can create events within a chat, pin them so key details remain visible, and collect RSVPs from participants.
Polls can be used to decide food, drinks, or activities, while live location sharing helps guests find their way to the venue and allows hosts to track arrivals and safe returns. Voice notes and video messages can also be shared to capture moments as they happen and include friends who cannot attend in person.
Connecting the world privately
WhatsApp said New Year’s continues to be a moment when people around the world come together on the platform, whether they are messaging from New York, New Delhi, Buenos Aires, or Jakarta. The company reiterated its focus on private and secure communication while enabling people to share significant moments like the New Year.
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