WhatsApp now lets you send short video messages directly in chats: How to use

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, July 28, 2023: WhatsApp will soon let users send instant video messages similar to voice notes. The Meta-owned company says the feature will be available to all users in the coming weeks, likely to roll out with an over-the-air (OTA) update. WhatsApp explains video messages are a "fun" way of communication and help people connect better, similar to voice notes. Since the duration has to be 60 seconds, users have to share to-the-point messages, which many users would appreciate. The feature is similar to Snapchat’s instant video messages, though those are ephemeral messages that automatically get deleted once opened.

 

In a blog post, Meta states that video messages are a "real-time way" to respond to chats with whatever you want to say and show in 60 seconds. The post adds, "We think these will be a fun way to share moments with all the emotion that comes from video, whether it’s wishing someone a happy birthday, laughing at a joke, or bringing good news."

Once the feature is available, the usage is simple. It will sit with the voice note button on the chat tray. The user will need to tap to switch to video mode and hold the record button. Users can also swipe up to lock and record the video hands-free -- similar to how voice notes work. Videos will play automatically on mute when opened in a chat, and tapping on the video will start the sound. WhatsApp notes video messages are protected with end-to-end encryption to keep your messages secure.

While WhatsApp lets users record and send videos with a dedicated in-app camera, the video messages feature brings a fresh look that may appeal to many users. Unlike voice notes, video messages do not get playback speed, which may irk some users. WhatsApp lets users adjust the playback speed of voice notes, which makes it fun and convenient in a fast-paced world. With no playback speed option for videos, users may also find the feature inconvenient.

Meanwhile, WhatsApp chief Will Cathcart is also using the opportunity to share the update on WhatsApp’s sister platform, Threads -- Meta’s Twitter alternate. In a post, Cathcart writes, "We are adding instant video messages to WhatsApp. Voice messages are incredibly popular, and this builds on that: record and send a short video, all within a chat."

Mark Zuckerberg also posted about the feature on Facebook and offered a demo. Video messages can work on both one-on-one chats and group chats.

Courtesy: India Today