WhatsApp update: New upgrade for photos and videos

WhatsApp is upping its game and focusing on media sharing features within the app while testing updates for users.

The first area that needs improvement is shared images, which are known to degrade in quality when sent to other users.

WhatsApp news site WABetaInfo discovered on Monday (March 25) that a new update rolling out through the Google Play Beta program addresses the issue.

The feature focuses solely on media upload quality, and users will soon be able to select higher quality levels when sending photos. The feature is available to some beta testers, but will be made available to more users as part of version 2.24.7.17 in the coming days.

The Meta-owned company isn’t just leaving the multimedia upgrade there, as they’re turning their attention to video as well.

The latest iOS version available for download on the App Store already has a feature that has been in testing for several months now. Similar to video streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube, you can now fast forward and rewind videos.

Double-clicking the right or left side of the screen will move the video forward or backward 10 seconds.

The messaging company is also reportedly working on other features, including filtering group chats, shared status updates, and favorites.

WhatsApp is developing AI features

With Meta as its parent company, it’s no surprise that the app is developing artificial intelligence (AI) features. Ask Meta AI is reportedly in development as part of version 2.24.7.14.

This will allow users to enter queries in the search bar and WhatsApp enhances the process by suggesting some prompts along the way.

When a command or question is submitted, Meta AI will answer and initiate a conversation. This should help people perform common searches and get information faster than exiting the app and accessing the browsing tools.

This feature has not been tested yet, so it will need to go through the beta testing process before it is available to everyone. It’s unclear what the exact date of this announcement or release will be.

Featured Image: Photo by Mourizal Zativa on Unsplash