WhatsApp just got more exciting. Now, instead of only sending still photos, you can share images with movement and sound—called Live Photos (on iPhone) and Motion Photos (on Android). But that’s not all. WhatsApp is also adding creative tools powered by Meta AI—like custom chat themes, video call backgrounds, new stickers, smarter group search, and document scanning for Android. These updates help your chats feel more alive and expressive. Let’s explore what’s new and how you can use it.

1. Live Photos & Motion Photos: Moving Moments with Sound

  • On iOS, WhatsApp now supports Live Photos. These are photos that capture a bit of video (a moment before and after the photo) with sound. 
  • On Android, you can send Motion Photos, which are like Live Photos on Android devices.
  • When you send these, someone viewing them can tap and play to see motion + hear audio. It makes the moment richer.

Why this matters:
Instead of a frozen image, you can relive little moments—wind in hair, laughter, songs playing, background noise. It adds emotion and realism.

2. Creative Meta AI Tools: Themes, Backgrounds & More

WhatsApp is bringing AI into your visual chats. Here are the creative tools:

Custom Chat Themes (via Meta AI)

  • You can now generate unique chat themes using text prompts. Want a forest scene or pastel gradient? AI helps you make it.
  • This goes beyond presets—AI helps you customize.

AI Video Call Backgrounds

  • In video calls, you can now choose or generate backgrounds using Meta AI. Make it look like you’re at the beach, in a sci-fi city, or wherever your imagination takes you.
  • You can also apply AI backgrounds when taking photos or videos in chats. 

New Sticker Packs

  • WhatsApp added new stickers to help you express emotions in fun ways. Packs named Fearless Bird, School Days, and Vacation are among them. 

3. Smarter Search, Docs & Group Tools

  • Ever forget which group a friend is in? Now you can type a person’s name in the search bar, and WhatsApp will show groups you share with them. 

Document Scanning on Android

  • Previously, document scanning was only available on iPhone. Now, Android users can scan, crop, save, and send documents directly within WhatsApp.

4. How to Use These New Features

  • Update WhatsApp first from App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) to get the latest version.
  • For Live/Motion Photos: Use your camera to take a Live or Motion photo, then share it in WhatsApp just like normal images.
  • For AI chat themes or backgrounds: Look for the Meta AI option in chat settings or video call settings.
  • For stickers: Go to the sticker section and download new sticker packs.
  • For group search: In the search bar, type a friend’s name—groups you share will appear.
  • For document scanning (Android): In a chat, choose the document/scanner option, scan, crop, and send.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s update adds fresh life to everyday messaging. With Live and Motion Photos, your pictures speak. With AI backgrounds and themes, your chats look personal and creative. And with smarter tools like group search and document scanning, the app becomes even more useful.

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