In a recent APK teardown, Android Authority has uncovered intriguing developments within WhatsApp’s Android app, specifically in version 2.26.41.11. Among the findings are sound stickers, a feature that allows users to add audio to their stickers, a toggle to remove the outline currently applied to user-created stickers, and an enhanced two-line compose box for improved messaging functionality. These features are still in the developmental phase, as noted by the publication on October 16, 2026.
Android Authority took the initiative to enable the sound sticker feature on their device, demonstrating its potential functionality. The teardown reveals a sound wave icon appearing in the toolbar when users create a sticker from an image. By tapping this icon, users are presented with two options: they can either record a voice clip or select an audio file from their device. Notably, the audio clip is limited to a maximum duration of 10 seconds, with the option to trim longer files to fit within this constraint.
Once sent, the sticker will display a volume icon, indicating the presence of the attached sound. The process for video stickers differs slightly; WhatsApp automatically extracts five seconds of audio from the selected video file and associates it with the animated sticker. Users then have the flexibility to replace this audio with their own recording or a file stored on their device.
Prior to this, WABetaInfo had reported on the sound sticker format on October 13, highlighting its presence in WhatsApp beta for Android. According to their findings, sound stickers will feature an audio icon in the chat, playing upon interaction while respecting the device’s silent mode. A volume icon on the sticker will allow users to mute the sound, with WhatsApp retaining this setting for future sound stickers.
Currently, WhatsApp applies an outline to every sticker created by users, and there is no option to remove it. However, the teardown has revealed a toggle within the sticker creation screen that would enable users to switch the outline on or off, offering greater customization.
Additionally, the teardown indicates ongoing work on the compose box. At present, users encounter a single-line input field accompanied by icons for attachments, the camera, and other features on the right side. The new design proposes a two-line box that could position these additional features on the bottom line, leaving the top line clear for typing. Android Authority speculates that the purpose of this change may be to accommodate more icons for features in the future.
What it means for you
As of now, these features remain dormant within the app, with no activation options available. WABetaInfo has not provided a timeline for when sound stickers will be fully operational. It is important to note that features identified in teardowns are subject to change prior to their release or may not be implemented at all.
If these features are rolled out as indicated, users can expect image stickers to support up to 10 seconds of recorded or imported audio, while video stickers will begin with five seconds of their own sound. The toggle for the outline will be conveniently located in the sticker creation screen, and the two-line compose box will enhance the user experience by relocating attachment and camera icons below the typing area.
Sources:
- The MTE Letter
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