ANDROID

WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.5: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.18.5.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that animates sending photo and video messages, and it's available to some beta testers!

ADVERTISEMENT



Common questions Answers
Name of the feature? Photo and video message animation
Status? Rolling out
Compatibility? WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.5 has been designated as a compatible update, but some users may experiment with the same feature by installing certain previous updates.
I've installed this update but I don't have this feature. Why? This feature is available to some beta testers, and it is rolling out to more users over the coming weeks.
Thanks: Sc and Muhammad Hammad, for testing and reporting.
Previous news? WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.17.10.75: what's new? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to create personalized AI-powered chatbots!
WABetaInfo Channel Get the latest news instantly! Follow our WhatsApp channel and receive push notifications with image previews to stay informed in real-time.
OPEN WHATSAPP

PHOTO AND VIDEO MESSAGE ANIMATION

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.15.10.74 update, we announced that a feature that animates sending chat messages was available. This feature introduces a smooth animation effect when sending messages, enhancing the overall user experience by making interactions feel more fluid and dynamic. The animation is triggered when the last message is near the chat bar, allowing the new message bubble to emerge and settle naturally into the conversation. It appears that WhatsApp now intends to offer iOS users similar message animations as it already does for the Android version, aiming to provide a consistent experience across both platforms. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.5 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that animates sending photo and video messages!

Attached image
Attached image

As you can see from the attached video, some beta testers can explore a new feature that enhances the media sharing experience with visual effects. When users send an image or a video from the drawing editor, an animation is triggered to visually guide the transition of the media into the chat. Specifically, the animation begins within the drawing editor interface, where the photo or video frame subtly detaches and starts moving toward the outgoing message area. The media then smoothly transitions into position as if it's being handed off to the conversation thread.

Once the image or video reaches the message area, it fades into the chat bubble, integrating seamlessly with the rest of the conversation. This animation adds a layer of refinement to the act of sending media, while also giving users a clear visual cue that the content has been successfully added to the conversation. The transition effect mimics a real-world gesture, offering a sense of continuity between composing and sending media.

It's worth noting that WhatsApp is continuing to explore new animation styles and transitions for future updates. This ongoing effort reflects a broader strategy to make the messaging experience more interactive, aiming to enrich communication not just through content. Through this development, WhatsApp is working to further modernize the interface of the app with subtle but impactful improvements. As more beta testers gain access to these animations, we can expect further refinements ahead.

A feature that animates sending photo and video messages is available 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.

ADVERTISEMENT



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.