Back in August, Meta announced that WhatsApp users would soon be able to send photos in 4K resolution by tapping an “HD” icon before sending. Although this option allows photos to be sent in higher quality, they are still reduced to a resolution of 4096 pixels on the longer side and compressed to save storage space. This feature was introduced with WhatsApp version 23.11.0.76 on iOS and 2.23.12.13 on Android.
As WABetaInfo has now discovered, Meta is going one big step further with the update to version 23.24.73. Instead of simply compressing photos and videos a little less, they can now be sent completely without compression. To achieve this, users must select “Document” instead of “Photo and Video Library” after tapping the “Plus” button next to the text input. The option to select images or videos then appears. The Messages app advises that files are limited to 2 GB.
As WABetaInfo notes, the rollout of this update for the Apple iPhone is already underway, so the first users already have access to this feature, while others should receive it within the next few days or weeks. It is currently unclear when this function will be offered to Android users, but it usually takes no longer than a few weeks for new features to be rolled out for other WhatsApp versions. The latest WhatsApp version also introduces new speech bubbles that indicate missed calls, as well as new reactions to messages based on your WhatsApp avatar.
Since 2009 I have written for different publications with a focus on consumer electronics. I joined the Notebookcheck news team in 2018 and have combined my many years of experience with laptops and smartphones with my lifelong passion for technology to create informative content for our readers about new developments in this sphere. In addition, my design background as an art director at an ad agency has allowed me to have deeper insights into the peculiarities of this industry.
Growing up in regional Australia, I first became acquainted with computers in my early teens after a broken leg from a football (soccer) match temporarily condemned me to a predominately indoor lifestyle. Soon afterwards I was building my own systems. Now I live in Germany, having moved here in 2014, where I study philosophy and anthropology. I am particularly fascinated by how computer technology has fundamentally and dramatically reshaped human culture, and how it continues to do so.
Alex Mitchell is your go-to expert for all things mobile. With a passion for the latest smartphones, apps, and mobile innovations, Alex provides in-depth reviews, insightful analyses, and breaking news about the ever-evolving world of mobile technology. Stay connected with Alex to navigate the fast-paced realm of mobile devices.
