WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.23.11: what's new?

WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.24.23.11.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to open the photo and video gallery from the chat bar, and it's available to some beta testers!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.14.5 update, we announced that WhatsApp was rolling out a feature to quickly reply to instant video messages. This new shortcut, positioned conveniently next to the video message, allows users to respond instantly without needing to use specific gestures. By simply tapping the shortcut, users can immediately begin recording a video note, saving time and allowing conversations to flow more naturally. It appears that WhatsApp seems to be introducing additional shortcuts for Android users to enhance interactions and save time. Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.23.11 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to open the photo and video gallery from the chat bar!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can explore a new shortcut placed directly within the chat bar. The new shortcut replaces the previous entry point that allowed users to open the camera, making it easier for users to access their gallery content without needing to navigate through multiple steps. By tapping this new gallery shortcut, users can directly access their stored photos and videos, saving time compared to opening the chat attachment sheet first. It is worth noting that users can still tap and hold the new gallery button to record instant video messages, preserving the feature that many rely on for quick video responses. This design ensures that, despite the change to a gallery shortcut, the essential video message feature remains accessible.

It is important to mention that this feature is currently only available to a limited group of beta testers, so not everyone will have access to it. We believe that WhatsApp may be using this release as a testing phase to gather feedback and understand how users feel about the change. Some users might find the new gallery shortcut more convenient, while others might prefer the previous shortcut, which opened the camera directly.

As a result, users should not be surprised if this feature is disabled in the future and never rolled out more broadly. If the feedback suggests that users miss the quick access to the camera, we believe that WhatsApp might decide to revert to the older configuration. While this new feature has potential, it’s possible that it won't be a permanent addition if it doesn't meet user expectations. In the meantime, for those who have access, this gallery shortcut offers an improved way to share moments captured outside of WhatsApp without additional steps. Still, users should consider this feature as experimental, as WhatsApp may decide to continue releasing or even remove it based on beta testing results.

A feature to open the photo and video gallery from the chat bar to some beta testers who install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store, and it is rolling out to even more people over the coming weeks.

Stay up-to-date on WhatsApp news by following WABetaInfo on X. You can also discover other new features for WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web/Desktop, and Windows.

Do you like this news? Please, let us know on X: we love hearing your feedback! If you're curious to see where you can find WABetaInfo, there is a dedicated page where you can discover our services.
In addition, we have set up a Discord Server where you can chat with other people, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest announcements from WABetaInfo.