WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Meta, is testing a major design overhaul that gives prominent space to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. The update, currently available only through the app's Android beta, adds a dedicated tab for AIs on the app's homescreen, replacing the existing Communities tab.

The new AI tab, spotted by WABetaInfo, features a selection of "Popular AI characters" to talk to, along with others organized by subject matter. This move is significant, as it marks a substantial shift towards AI-powered features within the app. While AI tools and chatbots are not new to WhatsApp, they are currently only accessible through the app's primary Chats tab and are limited to the US and certain other countries, as well as a select few languages.

The updated design is likely to give AI features more visibility and prominence within the app. Additionally, WhatsApp is also experimenting with expanding the range of AI bots by adding the option to create personalized AI characters. This feature was found in a separate beta update and would simplify the process of creating custom AI bots, which is currently only possible through Meta's AI Studio on the Instagram website.

It's worth noting that the Communities tab is not being eliminated, but rather, its functionality is being "streamlined" and moved to the Chats tab. A previous beta version introduced this change earlier in the week. The WhatsApp beta is available through Google Play, although tester numbers are limited, and the option to join is currently unavailable.

The implications of this update are far-reaching, as it signals a significant investment in AI-powered features by Meta. While it's unclear when or if the AI tab will be added to the app's live build, it's likely that the change will be limited to those countries where AI features are already available. This move could have significant implications for the future of messaging apps and the role of AI in enhancing user experiences.

As WhatsApp continues to evolve and adapt to changing user behaviors, this update could be a significant step towards creating a more immersive and interactive experience for users. With the rise of AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants, it will be interesting to see how WhatsApp's new AI tab is received by users and how it will shape the future of messaging apps.