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!
| 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! |
PHOTO AND VIDEO MESSAGE ANIMATION
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.15.10.74 update, we announced a feature that animates sending messages. This feature introduces a smooth animation effect when sending messages. This makes the messaging experience more interactive and fluid. The animation is triggered when the last message is close to the chat bar, making the new message bubble to emerge and settle naturally into the conversation.
WhatsApp intends to offer iOS users similar message animations as it already does for the Android version. This finally provides a consistent experience for 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!
As you can see from the attached video, some beta testers can explore a new feature that enhances the media sharing experience. When users send an image or a video from the drawing editor, WhatsApp triggers an animation that visually guides the transition of the media into the chat. The animation begins within the drawing editor interface. Here, the photo or video frame subtly detaches and starts moving toward the outgoing message view. 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. This action integrates the media seamlessly with the rest of the conversation. This animation adds a layer of refinement that gives users an indication that the content has been successfully added to the conversation. The transition offers a sense of continuity between composing and sending media.
It's worth noting that WhatsApp keeps exploring new animation styles and transitions for the future. Animations would make the messaging experience more interactive and enrich communication not just through content. Through this development, WhatsApp is committed to making the interface of the app more modern. As more beta testers gain access to these animations, we can expect further refinements ahead.
The 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.
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