As the world prepares to welcome 2026, WhatsApp has unveiled a suite of festive features designed to add sparkle and celebration to digital conversations. The Meta-owned messaging giant has rolled out a dedicated pack of New Year 2026 stickers, augmented reality (AR) effects for video calls, and animated status updates, all aimed at helping users share holiday cheer.
Vibrant Stickers and Glitzy Video Call Effects
The update introduces a fresh collection of New Year 2026 stickers, featuring classic celebratory imagery. Users can now decorate their chats with designs of sparkling fireworks, countdown clocks, popping champagne bottles, and playful text messages wishing "Happy 2026!". These stickers are integrated directly into the app, eliminating the need to download third-party packs. To use them, one simply needs to open any chat, tap the emoji icon, and navigate to the sticker section where the new pack should be available for eligible users.
Video calls receive a significant glamorous upgrade with new AR-style overlays. During a call, tapping the effects button unleashes festive animations like falling confetti, glowing balloons, and shimmering fireworks that burst across the screen. These effects work seamlessly on both one-on-one and group video calls, supporting up to 32 participants. WhatsApp has optimized these features to be lightweight, ensuring smooth performance without lag even on mid-range Android and iOS smartphones.
Animated Status Updates for a Standout Feed
Not to be left out, the Status feature also gets a festive makeover. When users post a photo or video related to New Year celebrations, WhatsApp can now automatically add complementary animations. These include subtle yet eye-catching effects like twinkling stars, rising balloons, or a digital countdown timer that syncs with the posted content. This provides a dynamic way to share New Year's resolutions, party snapshots, or holiday greetings that stand out in friends' and family's feeds.
Global Rollout and Availability
These features are now live globally for Android and iOS users who have updated to WhatsApp version 2.24.25.85 or later. Users should visit the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to download the latest update. While WhatsApp has not provided a detailed, region-by-region rollout timeline, reports indicate that a vast majority of users, including the massive user base in India, are already seeing the new features appear in their apps. The announcement was made on December 31, 2025, perfectly timed for the New Year's Eve celebrations.
This annual tradition of releasing holiday-themed features underscores WhatsApp's focus on enhancing user engagement through visual communication. By integrating these tools directly into the platform, it offers a convenient and unified way for millions to celebrate together, irrespective of physical distance.
