WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will enable users to share motion photos on Android devices. This feature, which has been spotted in development, is expected to allow users to share dynamic images with short video clips and audio in chats and channels. While still under development, this functionality is anticipated to be available in future updates, first rolling out to beta testers before reaching the wider user base.

WhatsApp Motion Photos Feature in Development

According to WABetaInfo, a feature tracker for WhatsApp updates, the messaging service is actively working on motion photo support for individual and group chats, as well as channels. The feature was first spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.8.12, which is being rolled out to select beta testers via the Google Play Store. However, it is still in the development phase and is not yet accessible to users.

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Motion photos, a feature found on several Android smartphones, allow users to capture short video clips with audio along with a still image. Some brands, such as Samsung, refer to this feature as “Motion Photo,” while Google’s Pixel lineup offers it under “Top Shot.” Apple users have been familiar with a similar functionality known as “Live Photos,” which is already supported on WhatsApp for iOS.

How Motion Photos Will Work on WhatsApp

The latest WhatsApp beta version includes a new media picker icon, located next to the HD button in the media selection interface. This button will enable users to choose between sending a standard still image or the motion photo version, if available.

Currently, motion photos taken on Android devices are shared as static images on WhatsApp, but the upcoming feature will change this. With the update, recipients will be able to view motion photos in their animated form, including both video and audio, even if their device does not natively support motion photos.

Expected Compatibility and Usage

WhatsApp’s upcoming support for motion photos is expected to be compatible with:

Individual and group chats – Users will be able to send motion photos to friends and family without losing the animated effect.

WhatsApp Channels – Content creators and businesses can use motion photos to enhance their media sharing.

Cross-platform compatibility – Android users will be able to send motion photos to iOS users, where they will appear as Live Photos.

Since not all Android devices support motion photos, WhatsApp is likely working on a way to make these images viewable across different devices, even those without native support. This aligns with WhatsApp’s broader strategy to enhance media-sharing capabilities and improve user experience across platforms.

Release Timeline and Future Updates

As with other WhatsApp features in development, there is no official release date for motion photo support. However, once the feature is ready for testing, it will be available to beta testers on Android before being rolled out to the stable version of the app.

This addition is part of WhatsApp’s continuous efforts to improve media-sharing capabilities, making interactions more dynamic and engaging. Motion photos will allow users to share not just still images but also the subtle moments captured before and after a photo is taken.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s upcoming motion photos feature promises to bring a new level of interactivity to media sharing. By allowing users to send dynamic images with short video clips and audio, WhatsApp aims to enhance the way users communicate and share memories. Although the feature is still under development, it is expected to be a valuable addition to WhatsApp’s growing list of media-enhancing features. As always, users should keep an eye on upcoming beta releases for early access to this exciting update.