New WhatsApp beta for iOS: choose photo and video quality

WhatsApp’s latest beta update for iOS, version 25.18.10.81, brings a handy feature that lets users pick the quality of photos and videos downloaded automatically. Available through the TestFlight app, this update is rolling out to some beta testers now, with more to get it soon. With this new option, you can decide if you want media files to download in standard or HD quality.

Standard quality shrinks files to save data and storage, perfect for those with limited plans or slower connections. HD quality keeps more details, making images and videos sharper, but it uses more data and space. This is especially useful in group chats where lots of media gets shared, helping you avoid downloading high-quality files you might not need. The feature works with a dual upload system. When someone sends media in HD, WhatsApp uploads both standard and HD versions.

Thanks to end-to-end encryption, the app can’t change files on its servers, so your phone picks which version to download based on your settings. This gives you more control over data use and storage, especially for busy chats or saved conversations. This update is already on Android, and now iOS users get the same control, making the experience consistent across platforms. To try it, join the WhatsApp beta on TestFlight. Stay updated on WhatsApp news by following WABetaInfo on X for more feature updates.