WhatsApp is working on a new feature to make users’ photo and video sharing faster and easier. The latest beta version of the platform (version 2.24.23.11) aims to make media sharing more practical with a gallery shortcut added to the chat bar. This innovation accelerates the sharing process by allowing users to access media content faster. The feature was first spotted by WABetaInfo.
In current usage, WhatsApp users have to click on the camera icon or the add button when they want to share something from the gallery. The add option opens a large menu that offers many options such as gallery, camera, location, contact, document, audio, survey and artificial intelligence-powered “Imagine”. However, this new gallery shortcut provides direct access to the gallery for media sharing and aims to improve the user experience.
The new feature replaces the camera shortcut in the chat bar, allowing users to open the gallery directly. While this provides an advantage for those who do not use the camera frequently, it represents a significant change for users who prefer to send quick video messages. Even though the gallery shortcut has been added, users will still be able to send short video messages by pressing and holding the button.
On the other hand, this change may be complicated by some users. The replacement of the camera icon with a gallery icon may require those who want to quickly open a camera to take an extra step. Now, to open the camera directly, you will need to click on the insertion icon and select the camera option from the menu. This may be a change to get used to, especially for users who frequently take photos and videos.
WhatsApp is testing its new feature with Android users
This feature can currently only be tested by certain WhatsApp Android beta users. Based on user feedback, Meta will make a decision between making the gallery shortcut active for everyone or keeping the current structure.