WhatsApp is testing a new feature that finally brings Apple’s Live Photos to the platform, allowing iPhone users to share images with both motion and sound. The feature is currently available to a limited group of testers in the iOS beta and is expected to roll out more widely in the coming weeks.
Live Photos come to WhatsApp chats
Until now, Live Photos sent through WhatsApp were reduced to still images or converted into GIFs, stripping away both audio and smooth playback. With the new update, Live Photos retain their original format, complete with sound and movement, offering a more authentic viewing experience.
A small Live Photo icon now appears on the thumbnail of these images, and users can press a dedicated button to view the picture in live mode. If saved, the file remains a Live Photo in the iOS Photos app, ensuring the dynamic memory is preserved.
The new capability was first spotted in version 25.24.10.72 of the WhatsApp iOS beta, released via TestFlight, according to WaBetaInfo. While the feature is currently available only to selected beta testers, a broader rollout is expected soon.
Improved cross-platform compatibility
The addition of Live Photos also improves how WhatsApp handles images across iOS and Android devices. When an iPhone user sends a Live Photo to an Android device, it will appear as a motion photo. Conversely, motion photos sent from Android will now be displayed as Live Photos on iOS.
This enhancement helps reduce fragmentation and ensures that users on both platforms can enjoy images as initially intended, regardless of their device.
Greater control over sharing options
Alongside the new feature, WhatsApp is giving users more control over how their photos are shared. A new toggle in the gallery and drawing editor allows people to disable motion before sending, effectively converting a Live Photo into a standard still image.
“If users prefer, they can remove the motion and send the photo just like a regular still image. Specifically, a new option in the gallery sheet, located next to the HD send toggle, lets users disable the motion with a single tap,” WaBetaInfo explained.
The feature remains in beta testing and is expected to become available to the public through an upcoming update. Once released, it will mark a significant improvement for iPhone users who want to share their Live Photos without losing quality or detail.
