WhatsApp Tested New Sound Sticker Format
The platform has begun testing audio-enabled stickers in its Android beta, months after removing its avatar sticker feature.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Internet
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WhatsApp has introduced a sound sticker format in its latest Android beta release, version 2.26.41.3. These interactive elements play audio tracks when tapped, though the feature remains currently limited to beta testing.
Why it matters
The company is pivoting its multimedia strategy following the removal of its avatar sticker feature in June 2026 due to low user adoption. This shift toward audio-integrated visual elements suggests a new attempt to increase engagement within chat threads.
The feature is identified in version 2.26.41.3 of the WhatsApp beta for Android. Sound stickers include an audio icon overlay to indicate functionality and are designed to respect system-level silent mode settings.
The players
An end-to-end encrypted messaging platform owned by Meta that serves a global user base through mobile and desktop applications.
The details
Sound stickers are embedded with an audio track that triggers when a user taps the graphic in a chat interface. Users retain control over playback via an on-sticker volume icon, allowing them to mute the audio as needed. The feature utilizes end-to-end encryption to protect the transmission of these audio-visual files, ensuring that the sound tracks are as secure as existing message formats.
Timeline
June 2026: WhatsApp removed avatar stickers from its Android and iOS applications.
October 2026: WhatsApp released beta for Android version 2.26.41.3.
The Tech Race
The introduction of sound stickers follows the abrupt discontinuation of the platform's avatar stickers in June 2026. This development signals a strategic pivot to refresh the in-chat visual experience after the previous feature failed to meet adoption benchmarks.
Users will be able to play or mute sound stickers by tapping them once the feature migrates from beta to the general release version. The stickers are programmed to honor device-wide silent mode settings, ensuring that audio does not interrupt the user unexpectedly.
The takeaway
WhatsApp is testing a new audio-based sticker format to replace its previous, underperforming avatar tools. Users can monitor the Google Play Store for version 2.26.41.3 or later to see when the feature moves out of beta testing.
Further reading
For more on the platform's ongoing feature updates, explore our Internet coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WABetaInfo.
Live Poll
Would you use interactive sound-based stickers in your personal messaging chats?
