WhatsApp is rolling out a fresh batch of features designed to make messaging more dynamic, creative, and convenient. The latest updates introduce support for Live Photos, AI-powered chat themes, unique video call backgrounds, improved group search, and document scanning on Android, giving users more ways to connect and express themselves.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Story about: | New Feature Roundup |
| Status: | Rolling out |
| Compatibility: | The latest versions of WhatsApp for Android and iOS are designated as compatible updates. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.28.1: what's new? WhatsApp is working on a feature to chat privately with Meta AI in Incognito Mode! |
Share Live Photos and Motion Photos on WhatsApp Across Platforms
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.24.10.72 update, we announced that a feature that supports sharing Live Photos in their original format was available. A Live Photo is essentially a hybrid between a still image and a short video, capturing moments one and a half seconds before and after the shutter is pressed. When shared via WhatsApp, the recipient can now view the photo in its full dynamic form by tapping a dedicated button that plays back both movement and audio. This ensures that the emotion and context of the captured moment are preserved, allowing users to relive memories exactly as they were recorded.
The WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.22.29 update lets some beta testers share motion photos in their conversations. These motion photos are the Android equivalent of Live Photos on iOS, combining a still image with a short video clip to capture the full moment, including movement and sound. WhatsApp announced in a new blog post that sharing Live Photos on iOS and Motion Photos on Android is officially supported. This allows users to capture and share moments with sound and movement. This feature also bridges the gap between static images and videos, offering a richer messaging experience.
Customize WhatsApp Chats with Meta AI-Powered Themes
WhatsApp revealed a new feature designated to let users generate AI-powered wallpapers for their themes. This update leverages Meta AI to transform simple text prompts into unique and visually striking chat backgrounds. Users can experiment with different ideas, from whimsical concepts to intricate cityscapes, seeing instant variations before making a selection. Additionally, the feature includes tools to refine and customize the generated wallpapers, ensuring they perfectly match individual tastes and chat aesthetics. Once completed, these wallpapers can be applied broadly across all chats or tailored to specific conversations for a more personalized experience.
We previously announced this feature in advance when it was available to a limited number of users over the past few months. Early access was provided on both iOS and Android beta versions, allowing select users to explore AI-generated chat wallpapers before the wider rollout. For iOS, details appeared in the WhatsApp for iOS 25.19.75 update, while select Android beta users could try it after installing the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.19.11 update. This phased introduction helped gather feedback and refine the experience ahead of the full release.
Create Unique WhatsApp Video Call Backgrounds Using AI
WhatsApp introduced a new feature that lets users generate unique backgrounds for their video calls using Meta AI. The background is the environment visible behind the user on camera, and customizing it allows control over how others perceive them. With AI-generated backgrounds, users are no longer limited to default options, as it's finally possible to create unique, personalized visuals based entirely on their imagination. The news was previously discussed in an article regarding AI-generated backgrounds.
Express Yourself with New WhatsApp Sticker Packs
The update introduces new sticker packs to make chats more expressive and fun. These packs feature charming characters in playful scenarios, adding personality and humor to chats. These include:
- Fearless Bird: this sticker pack features a cute, soft bird with a fearless spirit.
- School Days: school days are better with Bunny and Bear!
- Vacation: a fun-filled sticker pack featuring a lovable poodle on vacation.
Simplified WhatsApp Group Search Functionality
WhatsApp has enhanced its group search functionality, allowing users to find groups by searching for a contact's name. This means that if a user is a member of multiple groups with the same contact, all relevant groups will appear in the search results. The update streamlines the process of locating conversations, saving time and reducing the need to scroll through long chat lists. It also makes revisiting group chats more convenient and ensures important discussions are easier to access.
Scan, Crop, and Share Documents on WhatsApp for Android
WhatsApp announced that Android users can now scan, crop, save and send documents directly from the app without needing third-party tools. The feature offers both manual and automatic capture modes, giving users flexibility for precise or quick scans. Once captured, documents are immediately converted into PDFs and ready for sharing in chats or groups. Our coverage of the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.19.21 provided insights into this feature even before WhatsApp officially announced it.
Stay Tuned for More WhatsApp Updates
WhatsApp continues working on new features to enhance its platform and improve the user experience. Users can expect more functionalities and updates in the near future as the app evolves. While waiting for the next official announcement from WhatsApp, there's plenty to look forward to. In the meantime, users can continue following WABetaInfo for detailed coverage of upcoming features and beta releases. Staying updated with us ensures that users never miss any news about WhatsApp's latest improvements and innovations.
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