WhatsApp, a popular messaging app, is known for its continuous updates and improvements. Recently, a noteworthy change has appeared in its beta version, indicating a possible closer integration between WhatsApp and its parent company, Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram. In the latest beta update (version 2.23.20.18) for WhatsApp on Android, the familiar green verification checkmark, used to confirm the authenticity of channels and businesses, has transitioned to a distinct blue hue. This alteration coincides with Meta’s introduction of “Meta Verified” for businesses, emphasizing business authentication, impersonation protection, account support, and features designed to boost online business presence.
Meta’s Verified program is a subscription-based service, costing businesses $22 per month, and offering various benefits to enhance their online identity and customer interactions. While Meta Verified has already been introduced for Instagram and Facebook, it’s currently in the testing phase for WhatsApp business accounts.
This change in the checkmark color, along with Meta’s expansion into WhatsApp, signifies a growing synergy between the social media giants, reinforcing Meta’s commitment to investing in business marketing strategies across different digital platforms. While the exact connection between the checkmark color change and Meta’s Verified program remains speculative, it’s evident that Meta aims to create a seamless ecosystem for businesses to thrive in the digital space.
To access beta updates for WhatsApp on Android, users need to participate in the Google Play Beta Tester program for the app. However, as the program often reaches capacity and does not maintain a waitlist, getting access to these experimental features can be challenging.
WhatsApp is also actively working on a significant redesign, although it lacks support for features like Material You dynamic theming. Despite its modernized interface, this redesign is still in its early stages, so its stable release may be months away.
As Meta continues to evolve its Verified functionality and explore greater integration with WhatsApp, it underscores the importance of providing users with authenticity while offering businesses effective marketing tools. While some users may be cautious about Meta’s growing influence on the platform, businesses seeking seamless connectivity between social media accounts and messaging services will likely welcome this modification.
In the future, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Meta incorporate Verified functionality, represented by the blue checkmark, into WhatsApp’s stable versions permanently. This transition would not only provide users with confidence in the authenticity of channels and businesses but also serve as a valuable marketing tool for Meta’s expanding program.