WhatsApp has begun testing a long-awaited new feature for Android users. This feature, released in the company’s beta version 2.25.8.12, enables the sharing of animated photos. The feature is currently in limited testing, but development is actively ongoing.

Animated profile photos are coming to WhatsApp

Animated photos consist of images that can record the before and after moments of a photo capture with audio. This format offers more vibrant and interactive content than still frames. With this new feature, WhatsApp aims to enable users to share their memories more dynamically.

According to details revealed in the beta version, users will be able to send animated photos in chats, groups, and channels. An animated photo selected from the gallery can also be shared in still mode if desired. This selection can be made directly from WhatsApp’s own photo editor.

When an animated image is sent, the recipient can tell that it is animated and audio content by a small icon in the top left corner of the thumbnail preview in the chat. This icon provides a preview of the post’s format.

Integrating the feature directly into WhatsApp also eliminates the need for third-party apps like GifsArt and PHHHOTO, which have been used for this type of content until now.

WhatsApp occasionally releases new features directly after testing them in beta tests, but in some cases, the widespread rollout of such innovations can be delayed or even cancelled altogether. It’s currently unclear when animated photos will be available in the stable version. If the feature’s testing is successful, it’s expected to be available to all Android users in the near future.