WhatsApp is now testing a feature that allows users to send high-quality videos on its popular messaging platform.
This comes from a similar update that enabled users to share high-resolution photos.
As part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to enhance the messaging service, WhatsApp is also introducing Material You-themed alerts for Android users and improving the display of profile images in group chats on iOS.
The latest beta versions of WhatsApp for iOS and Android, namely WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.13.0.76 and WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.14.10, have already unveiled this exciting feature.
Users will no longer have to compromise on video quality, as the current compression that optimises network performance will be bypassed. Instead, users will be presented with two video quality options when attaching a video.
Upon sharing a video, users will notice an “HD” button in the preview window. Tapping this button will prompt a pop-up message offering a choice between Standard quality and HD quality.
The app will inform users that HD quality provides clearer visuals, while standard quality offers faster sending speeds and consumes less storage on their smartphones.
It’s important to note that, similar to the high-resolution image-sharing feature, WhatsApp will automatically default to sending videos in standard quality.
Users will need to manually select the HD option when they desire to send a high-resolution video.
To easily identify HD content, videos and images sent in high quality will be accompanied by a small HD icon on the media preview within the chat window.
Beta users on WhatsApp for iOS and Android will have the privilege of sending high-quality videos and images after updating to the latest release.
However, as with any feature undergoing testing, there is no official timeline for its availability to all users on the stable channel.
In addition to this groundbreaking video-sharing update, WhatsApp is working to enhance the user experience in other areas.
On iOS, the platform is improving how users’ profile icons are displayed in group chats. In instances where a user has not set a profile photo, WhatsApp will now display their initials instead.
This adjustment simplifies the process of identifying participants in large group conversations.
Furthermore, WhatsApp is rolling out redesigned alerts with rounded corners in its latest Android beta version. These Material You-themed tweaks are expected to be released to users on the stable update channel in an upcoming update.
