WhatsApp tests motion photos that capture sound and action in one click

WhatsApp is preparing to enhance the way users share photos by introducing a motion photos feature, currently under trial on Android devices. The latest beta release (v2.25.22.29), as reported by WABetaInfo, reveals that this functionality captures both movement and audio from moments immediately before and after a picture is snapped, offering a richer and more dynamic sharing experience. 

This feature is gradually being made available to select beta users through Google Play, with a broader rollout expected over the coming days. According to screenshots shared by WABetaInfo, a new play button appears within a circular frame in the upper-right corner of the photo selection screen. Activating this option allows users to send images as motion photos. WhatsApp explains these as “recordings of the moments before and after a photo was taken,” confirming that sound will accompany the visuals.

While the concept is not entirely new to Android users—Samsung’s “Motion Photos” and Google Pixel’s “Top Shot” offer similar capabilities—WhatsApp’s version will function on devices compatible with motion photo capture. Even users with phones lacking this feature will still be able to view motion photos received from others.

Importantly, this update might eliminate the current issue where sharing motion photos converts them into video files. However, WhatsApp has not yet provided a timeline for when this feature will leave the beta testing phase.

In addition to this, WhatsApp is trialling a new username feature, which will allow users to share a username instead of their phone number, simplifying connections while enhancing privacy.