WhatsApp to Auto-Play Animated GIFs in Latest Android Beta Release

WhatsApp has released beta version 2.23.10.2 for Android, and it includes a new feature that will make viewing animated GIFs more seamless. The feature allows animated GIFs to play automatically the first time they are viewed, eliminating the need for users to tap on the image to see the animation.

This update comes as a relief for many WhatsApp users who enjoy sharing animated memes on social media. However, it should be noted that the animation will only play once, even if the GIF is looped. After the first viewing, the “GIF” badge will appear on the image, and the user will have to tap the image again to see the animation again.

While some users may prefer a looping animation, this small update ensures that users will not be bombarded with an endless loop of an animation, which can become quite annoying. It may be a minor update, but it can have a significant impact on user experience and make sharing animated memes more enjoyable.

The new feature is currently being rolled out gradually to users, and those who are part of the WhatsApp TestFlight program may already have access to it. Eventually, the feature will be available to all users.

It should be noted that the GIF format has been around since June 1987, making it older than many internet users today. Despite its age, the GIF format remains a popular choice for sharing animated memes on social media, and this new update from WhatsApp is sure to make the experience even more enjoyable.