This new feature has been seen in WhatsApp Beta version 2.25.18.11. It is currently available only for some selected beta users. A website named WABetaInfo has shared information about this update. Gradually, it will be available on all mobile devices. WhatsApp is testing a new feature for its Android users, which will allow you to choose the quality of photos and videos that are automatically downloaded on your phone.
WhatsApp is developing a new feature for its Android app, which will give users more control over the quality of media that is auto-downloaded on their device. According to the information, the instant messaging platform may allow users to choose between standard or high-definition (HD) quality settings. The new option will be available in the beta version of the Android app. It is said that it is also available to some beta users.
What is the new feature of WhatsApp?
WhatsApp is testing a new feature for its Android users, through which you will be able to choose the quality of photos and videos that are automatically downloaded on your phone. Now you will be able to decide whether the media files should be downloaded in standard quality or HD quality.
New option seen in beta version
This new feature has been seen in WhatsApp Beta version 2.25.18.11. It is currently available only for some selected beta users. A website named WABetaInfo has shared information about this update. Gradually, it will be available on all mobile devices.
Where will you get this new option?
When this feature is rolled out for everyone, you will be able to access it like this:
Settings > Storage and Data > Auto-download Quality
Here, you will get two options for photos and videos – Standard Quality and HD Quality.
What is the difference between Standard and HD quality?
Standard Quality: Photo and video files are compressed, which makes their size smaller. This consumes less storage and downloads are also faster.
HD Quality: In this option, the resolution of the files is better, which makes the details of the picture or video more clear. But the file size is also larger and consumes more data.
How does this system work?
When a user sends a photo or video, WhatsApp uploads two versions (Standard and HD) of it to the server. But only the version you have selected in your settings will be downloaded on your phone. If you have selected Standard Quality, then the HD version will not be downloaded. But if you want, you can also view the HD version of any photo or video by manually opening it.
The feature may come for everyone soon
According to the report from WABetaInfo, this feature is currently available only to some users registered in the Google Play Beta Program. It may be released for more Android users in the coming weeks. Such a test was also started for iPhone users in April, but so far this feature has not been released in the iOS app.