WhatsApp on Android Set to Enhance Video Calls with New Camera Effects Feature

As communication apps continue to evolve, new features frequently enhance user interaction. One of the latest updates rumored for WhatsApp on Android involves integrating camera effects inspired by popular platforms. This potential enhancement aims to enrich video calls and image capturing, promising a more entertaining experience for users.

There are reports that WhatsApp for Android may introduce an exciting functionality that could transform how users engage in video calls and take photos. According to a feature tracker, the messaging application is experimenting with novel camera effects. This new addition is expected to incorporate filters, backgrounds, and various effects that can alter users' appearances during image capturing or video calls. Certain effects might require manual activation, while others could automatically respond to users' facial expressions and movements.

Details from a feature tracker indicate that this functionality was identified in the WhatsApp beta version for Android, specifically version 2.24.22.10, which is currently accessible on the Play Store. Although visible in the beta, only a limited number of testers currently have access to this feature.

According to shared screenshots, users can enable or disable these camera effects through the Privacy settings of the app. A new option titled Allow camera effects appears, leting users control its availability. The feature description suggests that, “To provide a more expressive experience, some effects will mimic your face and hands.” It is noted that these effects activate during photography sessions or while engaged in video calls. Furthermore, certain effects may automatically reflect users' facial expressions, gestures, and movements, while others can be manually controlled from the display.

Although primarily managed through the privacy options, users have the convenience of activating or deactivating these effects straight from the camera interface or video call screen for easy access. Importantly, the tracker emphasizes that employing these camera effects does not disrupt any encryption frameworks; thus, even with the effects turned on, video calls remain secure through end-to-end encryption.

At present, while this feature is only available to a select group of beta testers, there is no official timeline indicating when it might be made available to a broader audience.