WhatsApp developing motion photo sharing feature: Reports
WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to share motion photos on the popular social media messaging platform. According to reports, the platform is developing functionality that enables users to send brief video clips with audio, captured alongside still images on select smartphones.
The feature was first spotted in development on the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android. While it is not yet available for users to test, it is expected to roll out in a future update. iPhone users will likely see motion photos as Live Photos on WhatsApp for iOS.
WhatsApp is reportedly adding support for motion photos in individual chats, group chats, and channels. The feature was initially detected in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.8.12 update, which is rolling out via the Google Play Store.
According to WABetaInfo, a recent beta version of WhatsApp for Android supports sharing motion photos—GIF-like animations that accompany certain photos—similar to the Live Photos feature found on iPhones.
Motion photos are available on select smartphones and allow users to capture a short video with audio alongside a still image.
The feature tracker managed to activate the upcoming functionality, revealing a new media picker that includes an additional icon in the top-right corner of the pop-up menu, placed next to the existing HD button. Once enabled, users will be able to share motion photos directly from their Android devices.
Currently, images taken with motion photo mode are sent as static pictures on WhatsApp. However, a future update is expected to introduce proper support for sending and viewing these images as animated clips in chats and channels.
Even though capturing motion photos is limited to specific Android smartphones, WhatsApp is reportedly working on making them viewable across all devices, including those that do not natively support this feature. iOS users are expected to see them as Live Photos when the feature is officially rolled out.