Opinion
Stop sending voice messages!
by Livia Gamper
After voice messages: You can now send video messages on WhatsApp
25/7/2023
Translation: machine translated
Voice messages have always been polarising. WhatsApp is going one step further and is now introducing video messages.
WhatsApp is getting a new function: video messages. The function is already ready and is being distributed. But currently only to participants in the WhatsApp beta programme.
With the new update, you can record in-app videos and then send them to your groups, broadcast lists or individual contacts. At least if you have an Android smartphone. The feature is also coming to iOS. However, it is not yet clear when this will be the case.
How to send a video message
Recording a WhatsApp video works like this:
Select the desired group or contact. Then briefly tap on the microphone icon, which you normally need for voice messages. If you only tap it briefly, a camera icon will appear instead of the microphone. Tap on this, hold it down and swipe upwards with your finger, just like for voice messages.
A circle appears and the selfie camera is activated. WhatsApp asks whether it can access the camera when you first start it. You can now record a video of up to one minute and then send it. The recipient will also receive the video in this circular look.
It is not yet clear when the video function will be officially released. Based on experience, however, it should only be a few weeks before the roll-out starts. iPhone users will probably have to be patient. If you can't wait any longer: Simply check the respective app store regularly to see if an update is available for WhatsApp.
Cover image: Shutterstock
I've been tinkering with digital networks ever since I found out how to activate both telephone channels on the ISDN card for greater bandwidth. As for the analogue variety, I've been doing that since I learned to talk. Though Winterthur is my adoptive home city, my heart still bleeds red and blue.
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