‘Angry’ WhatsApp users left horrified after discovering huge change to the app

WhatsApp users have been left angry after waking up to a huge change on the platform that occurred in the middle of the night.

The instant-messaging platform is no stranger to criticism, especially for making changes with no forewarning.

The last controversial change was that the 'online' and 'typing' labels below a contact's name on the app began to appear in capital letters rather than the lowercase we're all used to.

After backlash, the decision was reverted.

This time around, the change occurred for many this morning (26 April), though it's now believed the change has been being rolled out across various countries for months.

15 years after it's launch in the Apple Store, many users will now see that WhatsApp is taking on a green-themed identity rather than the blue we're used to.

Unless you're an Android user, that is - in which case it's always been green.

Many Apple users have gotten used to a deep-blue theme, so the green is a bit of a shock to say the least.

People are miffed to say the least. (NurPhoto / Contributor / Getty Images)

This includes the chat-list window, notifications, the status bar and links sent in messages - it's all subject to a makeover fit for Shrek.

WhatsApp confirmed in a statement: "We’ve made some changes to how WhatsApp looks and feels, including spacing, colours, icons and more."

Social media has been aflame with people sharing their less than impressed reactions.

One person wrote: "What is wrong with WhatsApp? What is this ugly colour update?"

Another said: "TF is this new iOS WhatsApp update? It went from blue to green. I’m struggling with this new colour."

People were shocked to wake up to such a huge change. (Matt Cardy/Getty Images)

A third chimed: "What’s this new colour on WhatsApp, my eyes hurt."

Summing up the general mood, one person concluded: "My WhatsApp has suddenly turned to green text from blue, and I am unreasonably angry about this as I can’t change it back.

"I don’t like change."

If your iOS device isn't set to update Apps automatically, you might be able to hang on to the old version for a little while longer.

It would seem you're one of the lucky ones, and have something to brag about with your pals this weekend.

I guess you could say everybody else will be feeling pretty blue...

Topics: Apple, News, Technology, Social Media

Kya Buller

Kya is a Journalist at Tyla. She loves covering issues surrounding identity, gender, sex and relationships, and mental health. Contact: [email protected]

@kyajbuller