WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging app for Android. And if you’re reading this, you might as well be using it. Of course, it is convenient, not just to send messages, but also to share images, videos, sounds and sound notes without any limitations. It has become the most efficient IM app but lacks something, guess what? It is Google’s material design that is still missing. Unfortunately, the official app developers have not yet released the app with updated UI, but they must be working. You wouldn’t like to be running your Android device on the latest Lollipop OS, with most other apps with an updated design, except your favorite communication app, which is lagging behind.
The app may not have yet been updated with the latest framework, but someone else did take a step forward and modified the WhatsApp client with the updated material design framework. This worthy developer is Joaquin Cuitiño who had enough creativity to update this more than an usual app with an amazing design. The developer has shared his work to the public via Google+ community, where you can find all the changes, news, discussions, links and much more.
Also, WhatsAppMD is available with two different variants, one offering the stock emojis and the other one with the Google emojis. View complete changelog of each new update here. Further, we will look at what has been changed and different from the regular WhatsApp design.
What’s New?
The first thing to note is the welcome screen, it has the updated WhatsAppMD icon and the new restoration setup framework, the chat restore option now looks more appealing. The UI comprises of better minimal icons and a sleek design. The next to come in is the Chats list, it is more fluid and fast with a new and easy compose icon on the bottom-right, which resembles a better user interface. Clicking on the icon will expand it and display the option to compose New chat, New Broadcast and New group. Furthermore, the WhatsApp settings now have incorporated new icons which give a better feel. Another delightful option in the WhatsAppMD is the Updater – You can now scan for the latest WhatsAppMD updates, view changelog and install updates directly from within the app. Just tap on the dotted menu icon on the top-right and press on Updater.
Install WhatsappMD
The app is available to any Android device running Android 4.0.1 or up. Since we’re installing an app from outside the Play Store, you will need to Settings > Security and turn on Unknown sources.
- Download the latest release from the page: Link
- If you’ve downloaded the apk to the device, its fine. Otherwise, make sure to transfer the apk to the device’s storage (internal or external, your choice).
- Using a file explorer/manager, browse to the location of the apk and tap on it to start the installation.
- Agree to whatever terms and finish the installation.
- Roll back to the app drawer and tap on WhatsApp.
- Set it up as normal and enjoy the Material Design WhatsApp.
The app is completely open-source, if you would like and have experience with graphics or app coding, you can view the Github page. Tell us how you feel about the Materialized WhatsApp via comments. Provide us with your feedback, it’s valuable and will help us build a better community.
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