WhatsApp New Year Features: WhatsApp has launched new theme based features for its users before the new year. Billions of messages are sent on WhatsApp all over the world on New Year’s Day. And as part of this preparation, the platform has now introduced some New Year theme based features. New Year’s greetings and calls reach record highs as users across countries and time zones send greetings to friends and family.
On a typical day, the Meta-owned platform handles more than 100 billion messages and nearly 2 billion calls worldwide, according to WhatsApp. The number regularly exceeds this figure due to sharing of wishes through personal messages, group chats, voice calls and video calls during the 24 hours of the New Year.
New Year 2026 features on WhatsApp : New Year 2026 features on WhatsApp
On the occasion of New Year, WhatsApp has announced several temporary features:
2026 sticker pack
A new sticker pack based on the coming year is now available, which can be used to wish happy new year in chat.
Video call effects: (Video call effects)
Users can apply visual effects like fireworks, confetti and star animations by tapping on the effects icon during a video call.
Animated confetti reactions
A special animated reaction appears when users react to a message with a confetti emoji.
Animated stickers in status
WhatsApp has introduced animated stickers in status updates for the first time, which includes a special layout and animated stickers for 2026.
Group chat tools for New Year planning
WhatsApp has also highlighted all the existing tools that can be used to organize New Year planning in a group chat.
Event creation and pinning : Event creation and pinning
Users can pin in chat, collect RSVPs and share updates along with creating an event.
Polls
Polls can be used to decide on foods, drinks and activities.
Live location sharing : Live location sharing
Live location features help users locate venues and confirm safe transit.
Voice and video notes: Voice and video notes
Voice messages and video notes can be used to capture specific moments and share them with contacts who cannot be present in person.
Availability
New Year 2026 sticker packs, video call effects, animated reactions and animated status stickers are available now and will be available for use during the holiday period.