WhatsApp regularly expands its feature set to create more opportunities for communication and interaction. Meta has now confirmed that the iOS app will support Live Photos. This makes sharing images more versatile, as it transmits not just a still image, but short moments with movement and sound. In addition to this update, there are other new features that affect both iOS and Android users.
The integration of Live Photos into WhatsApp for iOS has been unofficially visible for a few days, but now Meta has officially introduced the feature. Live Photos are small animations that automatically appear when taking photos on iPhones, capturing brief movements and recorded sound. These files can now be sent or received directly within WhatsApp. In a newsroom post, Meta mentions several features that have been introduced "in the last few months." These include Live Photos, Motion Photos on Android, new sticker packs, expanded AI options, and practical improvements in search and document management.
Live Photos and Motion Photos
Live Photos on iOS and Motion Photos on Android bring life to Messenger. When sending or receiving, an indicator appears in the top left corner of the image. Tapping it starts a short animation that brings the moment to life and also plays the audio recorded at the time. The feature is currently being rolled out gradually. Many iOS users can receive Live Photos but aren't yet actively sending them.
Individual chat topics with Meta AI
WhatsApp now allows you to customize chats visually using themes. What's new is that this design is supported by Meta AI, which allows you to create your own, individually generated chat themes. However, this AI feature isn't yet available to everyone; it will be rolled out gradually.
New sticker packs
Additional sticker packs are available to expand the possibilities for expression. "Fearless Bird" and "Vacation" are new characters that depict feelings and situations without the need for text. Stickers have long been a part of WhatsApp and will be further expanded with these packs.
Improved group search
Searching for group chats has become easier. Instead of searching for the group name, simply enter a person's name in the search bar. WhatsApp will then display groups in which that contact is a member. This feature makes navigation easier, especially for groups with unusual or hard-to-remember names.
Document scanning on Android
Previously, scanning documents within WhatsApp was only available on iPhones. With the latest update, Android users can now also capture, crop, and send documents directly within the app. This makes WhatsApp more of an everyday tool on Android devices, too.
AI backgrounds for video calls
Video calls can now be made more creative. With Meta AI, you can create custom backgrounds that visually enhance the conversation. This feature is available not only in video calls but also when taking photos and videos directly in chats. WhatsApp thus expands the possibilities for creating personal environments and moods.
WhatsApp brings fresh momentum with new features
WhatsApp evolves with every update, combining classic messaging features with new, creative options. With support for Live Photos on iOS and Motion Photos on Android, sharing moments becomes more vibrant. Added to that are AI-powered chat themes and backgrounds, new stickers, a handy group search, and document scanning on Android. The Live Photos feature is currently still being rolled out but will soon be fully available to all iOS users. (Image: Shutterstock / Primakov)
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