WhatsApp for iOS is testing a new feature that takes advantage of augmented reality (AR), according to claims made by a feature tracker. The said feature would bring AR capabilities to video calling on the platform, allowing users to adjust factors such as lighting conditions and surroundings. The feature, available via a beta update, would also include the ability to add touch-up filters that adjust appearance in real time and a special low-light mode.
WhatsApp update
According to According to feature tracker WABetaInfo, AR support was first spotted on WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24. 16.7 back in July. It has now arrived on its iOS counterpart, following the reported rollout of WhatsApp beta for iOS version 24.15. 10.70 update via the TestFlight program.
WhatsApp Call Filters
Photo credit: WABetaInfo
According to the shared screenshot, WhatsApp’s new AR capabilities include dynamic face filters. Users will now reportedly be able to customize their appearance, such as the overall color tone of the video feed. It is also said to include a background editing tool, allowing users to blur their background or replace it with a preset background provided by the instant messaging platform.
Additionally, the WhatsApp for iOS beta update is also said to bring two special modes: touch-up and low-light. While the former would add a face filter that removes blemishes and smoothes skin, similar to the facial beauty filters on smartphones, the latter would improve visibility in low-light environments.
The feature tracker suggests that this new functionality is still in development and that only beta testers who have registered through Apple’s TestFlight program will have access to it. The feature will likely roll out to more users in the coming weeks.
Other new features
In addition to the AR capabilities still in development, WhatsApp also recently expanded its sticker portfolio with the introduction of GIPHY-powered stickers. Users can now also search for relevant stickers without leaving the app. Additionally, the custom sticker maker, which was introduced on iOS in January, is now available on Android.
If users still can’t find a relevant sticker in the library, they can easily generate their own sticker using Meta AI, the artificial intelligence (AI) conversational assistant available on Meta Platforms apps like WhatsApp and Instagram.
