Summary
WhatsApp is testing a new Motion Photos feature for Android, spotted in beta version 2.25.22.29. This will allow users to send images that capture movement and audio before and after a photo is taken, similar to Samsung’s Motion Photos or Google Pixel’s Top Shot. A new play icon will appear in the image selection interface for sending motion-enabled images. The feature requires a compatible device for creation but can be viewed by all users. WhatsApp is also developing a username feature so users can share usernames instead of phone numbers for added privacy.
Table of Contents
Introduction – Whatsapp Android Beta Motion Photos
WhatsApp, the world’s most popular instant messaging app, is once again expanding its feature set to make conversations richer and more interactive. According to the well-known WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo, the platform is currently testing a new Motion Photos feature for Android users. This update has been spotted in the WhatsApp beta 2.25.22.29 version, available through the Google Play Beta Program.
With this new addition, users will soon be able to share more than just static images—they’ll be able to send photos that include movement and audio from just before and after the shot is taken. This could make those special moments—like a child’s laughter, a quick glance, or a sudden burst of excitement—much more vivid and memorable when shared through WhatsApp.
What Are Motion Photos?
Motion Photos, sometimes called Live Photos or Top Shots depending on the device manufacturer, are short clips that include audio and a few seconds of footage before and after you take a picture.
Samsung Devices: Feature is called Motion Photos.
Google Pixel Phones: Known as Top Shot.
Essentially, instead of capturing a frozen frame, your camera records a mini video clip that turns a still photo into a more lifelike memory. Now, WhatsApp is integrating this concept into its messaging platform—making it easier to share these dynamic moments without needing third-party apps or workarounds.
How the Feature Works in WhatsApp
Based on the leaked screenshots from WABetaInfo, the Motion Photos feature will be accessible directly in WhatsApp’s image selection interface. Here’s how it works:
Select an Image – When you choose an image from your gallery, you’ll see a new Motion Photo icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
Recognizable Icon – The icon will look like a small circle with a play button inside, signaling that it’s a motion-enabled photo.
Enable or Disable – Tap on the icon to choose whether to send the image as a Motion Photo or as a regular still image.
With Audio Support – WhatsApp confirms that Motion Photos will also carry audio, adding another layer of realism to your captured moments.
This feature will only be available for images that were originally captured as motion photos on a supported device. If your phone does not have a Motion Photo feature, you won’t be able to create them—but you will still be able to view motion photos sent by others.
Device Compatibility
While the idea of Motion Photos is exciting, it’s important to note that device support is crucial for this feature:
If Your Device Supports Motion Photos – You can capture and send them directly via WhatsApp.
If Your Device Doesn’t Support Motion Photos – You cannot create them, but you can still receive and view them in chats.
This makes the feature highly dependent on the phone’s camera capabilities rather than being purely a WhatsApp-specific upgrade.
Why This Matters for WhatsApp Users
Adding Motion Photo support aligns with WhatsApp’s push towards more immersive and expressive communication. In recent years, the platform has introduced several features aimed at enriching multimedia sharing, such as:
HD Photo and Video Sharing – To retain clarity and detail in shared media.
View Once Media – For more privacy in image and video sharing.
Instant Video Messages – To send quick, face-to-face updates.
Motion Photos fit perfectly into this roadmap, bridging the gap between a static picture and a full video.
Other Upcoming WhatsApp Feature: Usernames
Alongside Motion Photos, WABetaInfo also revealed that WhatsApp is working on a usernames feature. This would allow users to create a unique username and share it with others instead of their phone number.
This change could be a game-changer for privacy-conscious users. Instead of giving out your personal number, you could simply share your username—similar to how Telegram and Instagram handle user identification. It could also make finding and adding contacts on WhatsApp much more convenient.
Potential Benefits of Motion Photos in WhatsApp
Richer Storytelling – Perfect for capturing moments where emotion and movement matter.
Better Memory Preservation – Keeps those “in-between” moments that static images miss.
Enhanced Communication – Adds personality to conversations without needing full-length videos.
Ease of Sharing – No need for separate apps or file conversions—everything happens within WhatsApp.
Privacy and Storage Considerations
While Motion Photos are a fun addition, users should be aware of a few things:
File Size – Motion Photos will be larger than regular images, potentially taking up more storage space.
Privacy – Since they include audio, you might unintentionally capture background conversations.
Data Usage – Sending or receiving these files will consume more mobile data compared to still images.
WhatsApp might provide settings to manage Motion Photos, including options to disable auto-download for those with limited storage or bandwidth.
When Will the Feature Be Available?
Currently, Motion Photo support is only available for selected beta testers in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.22.29 update. If you’re part of the beta program and don’t see the feature yet, don’t worry—it’s being rolled out in stages and might take a few days before it reaches all beta users.
Once testing is complete and feedback is positive, we can expect the feature to arrive in the stable version of WhatsApp for Android. An iOS rollout could follow later, but no official announcement has been made.
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp’s introduction of Motion Photo support marks another step towards making conversations more dynamic and meaningful. By combining movement, sound, and imagery, it offers a richer way to share life’s moments with friends and family.
Whether it’s a child’s first steps, a surprise party reaction, or a scenic moment that deserves more than just a still frame, Motion Photos can make those memories come alive inside WhatsApp chats.
Coupled with the upcoming username feature, WhatsApp seems determined to enhance both expressiveness and privacy for its users. If you love sharing memories, this is definitely a feature to watch out for in the coming updates.