What new features are being introduced by WhatsApp?

Three new features aim to improve group video calls, screen-sharing, improved call quality

WhatsApp users have long struggled with the quality of photos and videos shared on the app, often facing pixelation unless the HD feature was manually selected before sending. However, this issue is set to be resolved with a new feature from Meta's instant messaging app.

According to 9to5Mac, WhatsApp will soon allow users to send photos in high-definition (HD) by default, eliminating the need for manual selection. This update, available for both iOS and Android users, can be found under the "Storage and Data" menu in WhatsApp's settings.

Standard quality reduces photos to 960×1280 pixels, while HD preserves the original resolution of 3024×4032 pixels. Although images are still compressed, the process is less aggressive with the HD option.

WhatsApp is also introducing several new features designed to enhance group calls and video chats. Originally a text-only platform, this app has continuously evolved its call functionality since its introduction in 2015.

One major update includes expanding video calls to accommodate up to 32 participants, a feature previously limited to voice chats. This makes WhatsApp comparable to Apple’s FaceTime in terms of participant capacity, benefiting users for virtual meetings and gatherings. To manage the potential chaos of large video calls, WhatsApp has added a speaker spotlight feature that highlights the current speaker's profile at the top of the screen.

Meta has addressed call quality on older devices and in areas with weak network signals by implementing a new codec called MLow. This codec improves call reliability and reduces background noise and echo, ensuring better audio quality.

Meta confirmed that these updates will be rolled out gradually over the next few weeks, though specific regions for the initial rollout have not been disclosed.