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New features include effects for video calls, themed sticker pack, and updated match information directly in the app
WhatsApp announced this Wednesday, June 4, a special update focused on the 2026 World Cup, which starts on June 11. The platform released new features for users to follow the tournament more interactively. Among the new features are themed stickers, effects for video calls, reactions with the official ball of the competition, and real-time information provided by Meta AI.
Information released by WhatsApp itself shows that the World Cup is among the events that generate the most conversations within the app. The company is betting on this behavior to increase user participation during the World Cup. Visual resources, animations, and match updates are now part of the user experience throughout the competition.
Trionda becomes a special reaction during the World Cup
The main novelty involves the Trionda, the official ball of the 2026 World Cup. The item has been incorporated into the app’s reaction system and can be used in individual or group chats.
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Users who select the ball emoji will activate a special animation. Various balls will appear bouncing across the phone screen, creating a visual effect directly inspired by the tournament. The functionality will remain available until the end of the competition.
Exclusive sticker pack arrives in the app
Another highlight of the update is the launch of a special themed sticker pack. The collection brings together elements related to the world of soccer and was created to further stimulate interaction among users during the games.
Images of goalpost, cleats, tense ball, crying ball, and red and yellow cards are part of the set provided by the app. The goal is to expand communication possibilities during matches and key moments of the World Cup.
Video calls receive football-inspired filters
New effects have also been incorporated into WhatsApp video calls. The update adds visual features that evoke the atmosphere of stadiums and sports broadcasts.
Users will be able to use a ball positioned over the head, apply a goal as a background, or insert a ball sticker on the face during calls. Other football-related elements are also becoming part of the video call experience.
Meta AI will display real-time information about the games
Meta AI, the company’s artificial intelligence, has also gained new functions to follow the competition. Updated match data can be accessed directly within the app.
Rankings and real-time information will be available throughout the tournament. The initiative aims to facilitate access to the main World Cup data without users needing to resort to other apps or platforms.
World Cup has already set a historic record on WhatsApp
Data released by WhatsApp shows the extent of public interest in the tournament. During the final of the 2022 World Cup, held in Qatar, the platform recorded a peak of 25 million messages per second.
The number underscores the importance of football within the app and helps explain the launch of specific features for the 2026 edition. Stickers, animations, filters, and real-time information are part of a strategy aimed at increasing user engagement during the world’s most-watched sporting event.
The arrival of these new features shows how digital conversations are increasingly connected to major global events. With so many new features available during the 2026 World Cup, which one will become the favorite among fans?
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