As we approach the end of the year, many people are gearing up to send countless messages to their loved ones to usher in 2026. It is a bustling time for messaging platforms, with WhatsApp noting that December 31 consistently ranks as its busiest night of the year.
WhatsApp shared that New Year’s Day is their peak day, setting new records each year for messaging and calling activity. While the platform typically handles over 100 billion messages and 2 billion calls daily, the onset of the New Year always surpasses these figures.
In anticipation of the festive season, WhatsApp has introduced new features to enhance user experience during the celebrations. The latest update includes a range of offerings such as bonus sticker packs, party effects, and an innovative way to showcase your status.
Here are the latest features on WhatsApp:
– 2026 sticker pack: Share your excitement for the upcoming year with the newly released 2026 sticker pack.
– Video call effects: Spruce up your video calls with fireworks, confetti, and star animations to illuminate your screen during celebrations.
– Animated confetti reactions: Enjoy special animated reactions when using the confetti emoji to respond to messages.
– Status updates: Animated stickers are now available for Status updates, introducing a unique 2026 layout to help ring in the New Year.
In addition to these enhancements, the Meta-owned service is also providing tips for users engaging with the app on New Year’s Eve. WhatsApp suggests:
– Creating an event, pinning it in the chat, collecting RSVPs, and keeping everyone informed.
– Using polls to decide on food, drinks, and activities.
– Sharing live location to assist friends in finding the party venue and ensuring their safe return home.
– Sending video and voice notes to capture and share real-time moments with absent friends, making them feel connected even from afar.