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WhatsApp has just rolled out a nifty new update for its iOS users, giving video playback a significant upgrade. This messaging app has always been a favorite when it comes to seamlessly sharing videos and images between iOS and Android, without the dreaded compression ruining your precious media. But now, iPhone users are getting an even better deal—at least for the time being. So, what’s the big change? And why should Android users care?
New Features for iOS Users
In WhatsApp’s latest update for iOS (version 24.20.78), users can now adjust video playback speeds. Yes, you heard that right! Finally, you can fast-forward those never-ending tutorial videos or quickly skip through the filler parts in shared media. The new speed options include:
- Normal Speed – For those who enjoy things as they are.
- 1.5x Speed – Perfect for digesting content faster, while still catching all the details.
- 2x Speed – Because life’s too short for long videos.
These playback speed controls are conveniently located next to the progress bar, making them easy to access without interrupting your viewing experience. But wait, there’s more!
Picture-in-Picture Mode for Multitaskers
Along with speed control, WhatsApp has also introduced a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature. Now, you can keep watching your video in a floating, resizable window while you multitask. Respond to messages, browse the web, or scroll through Instagram—all while keeping an eye on the video. This is a game-changer for those of us who can’t sit through videos without checking notifications.
Here’s the real kicker: the PiP mode also includes the new playback speed options. So, you can resize, reposition, and speed-watch all at once. A multitasker’s dream come true!
The Big Catch? Android Users Have to Wait
Now for the part that might make Android users feel a little left out—these features are only available for iOS at the moment. Yep, that’s the big catch. While WhatsApp hasn’t announced an exact release date for Android, the good news is that Android users likely won’t have to wait too long. WhatsApp generally rolls out features to both platforms around the same time. If you’re using a Pixel or any other Android device, expect these updates to hit your app in the coming weeks.
Why This Matters
WhatsApp’s popularity partly stems from its ability to bridge the gap between iOS and Android, offering a seamless experience across both platforms. It’s also a go-to app for millions because it’s free, secure (thanks to end-to-end encryption), and compresses media without noticeable quality loss. Now, with these new features, WhatsApp is pushing its appeal even further for video content consumers.
iOS users can immediately enjoy more flexibility in how they watch and interact with videos, while Android users will have to hold tight. But once this update hits Android, both platforms will once again be on equal footing, ensuring a better overall experience for everyone.
So, if you’re an iPhone user, get the latest WhatsApp update from the App Store and start zipping through videos like a pro. For the Android crowd, the wait will hopefully be short-lived—but keep those fingers crossed!
