WhatsApp Now Lets You Send Telegram-Style Video Messages To Punctuate Long Texts
By Alexa Heah, 31 Jul 2023
WhatsApp recently announced it was introducing a new feature that could enhance the way users communicate with each other on the application.
Starting now, text messages will be able to be punctuated with instant video messages, similar to the ones seen on competing platform Telegram.
Building upon its existing voice message functionality, the latest feature now allows users to record and share short personal videos directly within their chats, making conversations more dynamic and expressive.
Instead of just sending voice notes, individuals can respond in real-time with video messages up to 60 seconds long, adding a new layer of depth to their conversations.
Thankfully, the learning curve for WhatsApp video messages isn’t steep. One can easily switch to video mode by tapping on the screen and holding it to record the video.
sometimes you just have to see it to believe it ð now you can capture the moment right when it happens with a Video Message. pic.twitter.com/QiDTRhRRJ6
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) July 27, 2023
To make things even more convenient, a swipe-up gesture enables hands-free recording, allowing users to focus on what they want to say and show without worrying about holding the device.
When a video message is opened in a chat, it automatically plays on mute, giving recipients the option to watch it without immediately hearing the sound. To listen to the audio, users can simply tap on the video, and the sound will start playing.
In terms of security, Meta ensures that video messages—like all the others on the platform—are protected with end-to-end encryption. As per the technology giant, this means only the sender and the intended recipient will be able to access and view the video.
The rollout of video messages has already begun, and it will be gradually made available to all WhatsApp users in the coming weeks.
Mark Zuckerberg just announced that WhatsApp is adding the ability to instantly record and share a video message in your WhatsApp chats!
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) July 27, 2023
Video messages are a real-time way to respond to chats with whatever you want to say and show in 60 seconds. It's as easy as sending a quick… pic.twitter.com/eOyOv0r3iI
[via Engadget and Pocket-lint, cover image via Meta]
This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked.