WhatsApp, the widely used messaging app known for sharing photos and videos, is testing a new feature that would let iPhone users send short video messages to recipients. News around the feature has circulated under the umbrella of Durov’s Code, a reference some observers have used when discussing cross‑platform ideas in private messaging ecosystems.
The approach described mirrors how Pavel Durov’s Telegram handles quick video snippets, suggesting WhatsApp may borrow a familiar interaction pattern to keep things simple and fast for users who want to convey a moment without composing a full message. The concept emerged in the iOS beta version of WhatsApp, indicating that development is active but not yet rolled out to the wider user base.
The planned workflow would let a user start recording by pressing and holding a video record button, with a limit that could reach up to 60 seconds. Once recorded, a circular preview would appear in the chat, allowing recipients to play the clip with a single tap. Importantly, the messages are described as end‑to‑end encrypted, aiming to protect privacy by ensuring content isn’t transmitted or stored on servers in a readable form. That said, the system would permit screenshots, a feature that has sparked discussions about how ephemeral the media truly remains on a device.
At this stage there is no official timeline for a global rollout. WhatsApp typically tests new capabilities in beta channels before making them available to all users, and timing can vary by platform and region. For users and press following the product road map, updates usually arrive through the company’s communications channels once the feature is ready for broader testing or release.
Beyond video messages, WhatsApp has recently introduced enhancements aimed at improving group conversations. Admins can more precisely control who can join a group, a feature designed to curb uninvited participants and manage group growth more effectively. In addition, there are improvements intended to help people identify groups they frequently encounter or share common connections with, which can streamline how users find and join relevant communities within the app. Such updates reflect a broader push to balance openness in group spaces with stronger moderation tools for organizers.
Earlier discussions around WhatsApp mentioned another development—an official account used to convey information about new features. This aligns with a broader industry pattern where messaging platforms maintain a visible corporate presence to share updates and onboarding tips, helping users understand what to expect as services evolve.