WhatsApp is continuously working on new features to improve user experience. The company is currently testing a new feature called Motion Photo for Android users. This feature has been spotted in the WhatsApp beta version 2.25.22.29 and is currently available to a select few beta testers.
Motion Photo is a camera feature which captures a few moments before and after the photo is taken. In addition to the movement, audio is also recorded, which makes the photos more lively. Many smartphones, such as Samsung’s Motion Photos and Google Pixel’s Top Shot, have this feature already.
When a user selects an image from their gallery, a new icon will appear on the top right corner of the screen. This icon contains a play button, ring and a small circle. By tapping on this, users can send the photo as a Motion Photo. The sent photo will show the movement and also the sound of that moment.
To send Motion Photos on WhatsApp, your smartphone must support this feature. However, if your phone doesn’t support Motion Photos, you’ll still be able to view Motion Photos sent by others.
In addition to the Motion Photo feature, WhatsApp is also working on another important feature. Users will be able to share their usernames instead of their phone numbers. This will make the chatting experience more secure and improve privacy.
All in all, WhatsApp’s Motion Photo feature will not only make photo sharing more fun, but it will also help in preserving memories in a more vivid way. While the username feature will provide a new and secure way for users to share their identity.