WhatsApp is enhancing user control over data usage and device storage with a new feature that lets users select the download quality for photos and videos.
This highly anticipated update is currently being rolled out and introduces two options: “standard quality” and “HD quality,” both available in the “Storage and Data” section of the app settings.
The new feature is currently only accessible to beta testers who have downloaded the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.11 update from the Google Play Store, WABetaInfo reported.
Previously, all media was automatically downloaded, consuming data and storage regardless of users’ needs. However, users can now customise their auto-download settings to align with their data plans, network conditions, or personal preferences.
Selecting “standard quality” allows for smaller, compressed files that facilitate quicker downloads and conserve data whereas the “HD quality” option maintains higher visual detail and resolution, though it does increase both data and storage usage.
This innovation is underpinned by a clever dual-upload system for high-quality media.
When a user opts to send an image or video in HD, their device automatically generates and uploads both a standard and an HD version of the file. This approach is necessitated by WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption, which prevents server-side compression or alteration of file quality.
The recipient’s app then automatically downloads the version aligned with their pre-selected auto-download settings.
A key benefit, particularly for users in group chats, is the ability to automatically receive only standard quality media.
This prevents unnecessary data expenditure on high-resolution images or videos that the user may not intend to view in detail. Should a user later decide they want to see the HD version, the app can still retrieve it from the server, provided it’s still available.
This update represents a significant improvement for individuals with limited data plans or slow internet connections, offering a smoother and more efficient WhatsApp experience.
At the same time, users who prioritise image clarity for important visuals can still choose to consistently auto-download HD content.
The feature is expected to become widely available to all users in the coming weeks.
