Here is something to cheer video addicts on WhatsApp. You don’t need to wait till a video fully downloads to view or enjoy. A new update allows you to stream videos as it opens.
The update, though is not official, has been spotted on WhatsApp’s beta version 2.16.365. Every time a video is received, users will see a play option instead of the download button.
Similar to streaming on YouTube, users can start downloading and play video simultaneously. And half way you can even cancel the download, saving time and data. This nifty feature is for now available for Android users. Once out of beta, you should see an official roll out on all devices.
The latest update comes just days after WhatsApp introduced the much-awaited video calling across Android, iPhone, and Windows Phone devices. The encrypted video calling service was designed to compete with popular services like Skype and FaceTime.
Even as the video call is progressing, users can multi-task and can even switch between the rear or front camera of the phone. The quality of visuals automatically adjusts depending on network speeds and area.
“Over the years we’ve received many requests from our users for video calling, and we’re excited to finally offer this feature to the world,” the company stated in a blog post. “Thank you for using WhatsApp and we promise to keep working hard every day to improve the service.”