As the world prepares to bid farewell to 2025, tech giants are adding a digital sparkle to the celebrations. Google has unveiled its annual interactive New Year's Eve Doodle, while WhatsApp has rolled out a suite of party-themed features to help users welcome 2026 in style.
Google's Festive Search Surprise
Google is marking the transition from 2025 to 2026 with a playful and interactive animation. The centrepiece of today's Google Doodle features a fun animation where the numerals "2025" smoothly transition into "2026". This visual change symbolises the end of one year and the beginning of the next.
The official description states this Doodle celebrates New Year's Eve globally, a time when billions gather with loved ones to reflect and welcome the new beginning. The description page adds, "Soon, the clock will strike midnight to officially mark the start of 2026!"
The celebration doesn't stop at the homepage. Users who search for "New Year's Eve" on Google are treated to an interactive search result. A virtual confetti popper appears on the screen, and a simple tap triggers a vibrant animation where colourful paper pieces fill the display, bringing a burst of festivity to the search experience.
WhatsApp's Party Toolkit for 2026
Meanwhile, Meta-owned WhatsApp has introduced a collection of features designed to make New Year's greetings more interactive and exciting. The platform has launched a dedicated 2026 sticker package, video call effects, animated confetti reactions, and animated status stickers.
Here is a simple guide to using WhatsApp's new festive stickers effectively:
- Open any individual or group chat on WhatsApp.
- Click the emoji icon located in the text input area.
- Switch to the Sticker tab (it's the square icon with a folded corner).
- Scroll down to find the new 2026 sticker pack. If you don't see it, click the "+" icon to browse and download it from the sticker store.
Tapping any sticker will send it instantly to the chat. Combining these stickers with personalised text can create unique and heartfelt New Year greetings. Adding these playful elements gives your messages an extra touch of festivity, especially when sending wishes to multiple friends and family members.
Making Digital Celebrations Memorable
These simultaneous launches from Google and WhatsApp highlight how technology is increasingly woven into our cultural celebrations. From a simple search turning into a party to messaging apps providing tools for shared joy, the digital space is enhancing how we connect during global milestones.
While Google's Doodle offers a moment of shared, public celebration for every user visiting its homepage or searching, WhatsApp's features provide the tools for private, personalised connections. Together, they offer a comprehensive digital toolkit to ring in New Year 2026 with enthusiasm and cheer, no matter where you are.
