WhatsApp has been consistently improving its media-sharing experience, and recent beta updates clearly show that the platform is focusing heavily on photos and videos. As someone who regularly tracks WhatsApp beta changes and tests new features, it’s evident that WhatsApp is no longer just a messaging app-it is evolving into a richer, more immersive communication platform.
After introducing a redesigned gallery interface and improved album sharing in earlier beta versions, WhatsApp is now working on an even more exciting feature. According to findings in WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.25.8.12, available on the Google Play Store, WhatsApp is developing support for motion photos in chats, groups, and channels.
This upcoming feature aims to bridge the gap between static photos and videos, making shared moments feel more alive and expressive.
What Are Motion Photos and Why Do They Matter?
Motion photos are images that capture a short moment of movement before and after the photo is taken. Unlike traditional photos, they include a few seconds of video-and sometimes audio-allowing users to relive the moment rather than just view it.
Many Android users are already familiar with this concept:
- Samsung Galaxy devices call it Motion Photo
- Google Pixel phones use Motion Photos or Top Shot
- Apple iPhones offer a similar feature known as Live Photos
Until now, Android users faced a major limitation on WhatsApp: motion photos were sent as static images, losing all movement and emotion. Based on real-world usage, this often felt disappointing—especially when sharing moments like a child’s reaction, a quick smile, or a subtle movement that made the photo special.
WhatsApp’s upcoming motion photo support directly addresses this issue and significantly enhances how memories are shared on Android.
What’s New in WhatsApp Beta 2.25.8.12?
In the latest beta update, WhatsApp is testing a dedicated motion photo option inside the gallery sheet. When users select a motion photo, WhatsApp will display a new button that allows them to choose between:
- Sending the static photo, or
- Sending the motion photo version
From an experience perspective, this flexibility is extremely valuable. There are times when a still image is enough, and other times when motion adds meaning to the moment. WhatsApp is giving users full control instead of forcing a single format.
This feature feels especially useful for:
- Travel photography
- Family moments and celebrations
- Pets, kids, and candid reactions
- Short emotional or expressive moments
Instead of sending a full video, users can now share a lightweight motion photo that perfectly captures the essence of the moment.
Motion Photos in Chats, Groups, and Channels
One of the most impressive aspects of this feature is its broad compatibility. Motion photo sharing is being developed not just for personal chats, but also for group chats and WhatsApp channels.
Even more importantly, recipients will be able to view motion photos in animated form regardless of their device. For example:
- Android motion photos sent to iPhone users may appear as Live Photos
- Users without native motion photo support will still see the animation within WhatsApp
This cross-platform consistency shows WhatsApp’s commitment to a seamless user experience. In my experience, this kind of compatibility is what truly sets strong messaging platforms apart.
For content creators and channel admins, motion photos could become a powerful engagement tool, offering more life than images and less friction than videos.
WhatsApp’s Bigger Media Strategy
If we look at recent updates as a whole, a clear strategy emerges:
- New gallery interface
- Album-level captions
- Automatic media grouping
- Now, motion photo support
WhatsApp is clearly investing in visual communication. The goal seems to be making photo and video sharing faster, more expressive, and more intuitive, without overwhelming the user.
Rather than copying social media platforms outright, WhatsApp is enhancing everyday conversations with richer media experiences while keeping the app simple and familiar.
Final Thoughts: Is This Feature Worth the Hype?
Based on hands-on experience with WhatsApp beta features, motion photo support is one of the most meaningful upgrades Android users have been waiting for. iOS users have enjoyed Live Photos on WhatsApp for some time, and this update finally brings feature parity.
Although motion photo sharing is still under development and will roll out in a future update, progress suggests it may arrive sooner rather than later.
For users who care about preserving real moments-not just images-this feature is a big step forward. WhatsApp is making conversations feel more human, more emotional, and more alive.
We’ll continue to monitor this feature closely and will share a dedicated follow-up article as soon as WhatsApp officially rolls it out with more details.
