Google

WhatsApp’s new video playback features come with a key limitation for Android users

Published

7 months ago

October 15, 2024

WhatsApp, one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, continues to improve its services, especially for media sharing. Known for connecting users across different platforms, WhatsApp allows seamless communication between iOS and Android users. One of its standout features is the ability to send images and videos without noticeable quality loss. The app also benefits from end-to-end encryption, ensuring security and privacy. Now, WhatsApp has enhanced its media playback with a new update, though it comes with a catch for some users.

Video Playback Updates on iOS

WhatsApp has introduced a new set of video playback controls, but they are currently available only on iOS. This is the “big catch” for Android users eagerly awaiting similar upgrades. The update, listed by WABetaInfo for iOS version 24.20.78, gives iPhone users the ability to change video playback speeds. There are three speed options: normal (standard speed), 1.5x speed (fast), and 2x speed (faster). This feature is particularly helpful for users who want to quickly skim through videos, especially tutorials or content they are already familiar with. The speed control option is conveniently located next to the playback bar, making it easy to switch speeds without interrupting the video.

Picture-in-Picture Mode Adds Flexibility

In addition to the playback speed controls, WhatsApp has also added a picture-in-picture (PiP) mode for videos on iOS. This mode allows users to continue watching a video while multitasking on their phone. You can resize the video window, move it around the screen, and still keep up with other activities such as messaging or browsing without stopping the video. What makes this even better is that the PiP mode also includes the new playback speed options. This means you can speed up or slow down a video while using other apps, ensuring a smoother and more efficient experience without losing progress on the video you’re watching.

Accessing the New Features on iOS

iPhone users can get these new features by updating WhatsApp to the latest version available on the App Store. However, not all users may see the update immediately, as WhatsApp often rolls out new features gradually. If the update doesn’t appear right away, it should become available in the coming weeks. In the meantime, make sure you’re using the most recent version of the app to ensure compatibility once the features roll out in your region.

What About Android Users?

While iOS users are enjoying these new tools, Android users are still waiting. WhatsApp has not yet provided a release date for Android, but updates to both iOS and Android tend to happen around the same time. So, Android users should expect similar features soon. Given that WhatsApp often synchronizes feature rollouts across platforms, likely, Android users won’t have to wait long before they can also take advantage of faster video playback and PiP functionality.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s latest video playback enhancements on iOS bring useful features like adjustable playback speeds and picture-in-picture mode, making it easier for users to multitask while watching videos. However, Android users will have to wait for these improvements, though it’s expected that they will be available soon. These upgrades show that WhatsApp continues to evolve, offering a more efficient and user-friendly experience, especially for media sharing.

For now, iOS users can enjoy these new features while Android users keep an eye out for the update. Whether you’re looking to quickly scan through videos or multitask while watching, WhatsApp’s new features promise to make the media experience even better—just with a little patience for Android users.

Android

Google’s May 2025 Android updates: better performance and messaging

Published

3 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Tom Carter

Google’s May 2025 Android updates bring exciting changes to improve how your phone works and how you message. These updates focus on making devices faster, safer, and more user-friendly.
One big change is to Android’s memory system. By increasing the memory page size from 4KB to 16KB on newer devices, apps can load quicker and use less power. This helps phones, especially those with modern chips, run smoothly and save battery life. Older devices will stick with the smaller page size to avoid issues.

The Google System Updates for May also add new features. Google Wallet now supports more card types and makes transit passes easier to use in apps like Google Maps. The Play Store now shows video previews of apps, helping you decide what to download. There are also fixes to improve battery life, storage, and network performance, making your phone more reliable.

For Google Messages, a new “delete for everyone” feature lets you remove sent messages from group chats within 15 minutes. This works for both RCS and SMS, so you can fix mistakes easily. Other messaging upgrades include better scam detection and the ability to send high-quality photos and videos. These updates show Google’s effort to make Android devices faster, more secure, and better for communication. Keep your phone updated to enjoy these improvements!

Google

Smart home and navigation upgrades for easier living

Published

3 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Tom Carter

Google Maps is making driving more fun with a new feature for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Now, you can pick different car icons to show your vehicle on the map. Choose from options like a sleek sedan, a rugged SUV, or a cool arrow.

This small change adds a personal touch to your navigation and is rolling out to all users soon. Meanwhile, Ecobee’s Smart Doorbell Camera is getting a big upgrade with Google Home support. You can now see who’s at your door right from the Google Home app, view live video, and even talk to visitors.

If you have a Nest Hub, the doorbell feed pops up automatically when someone rings. This feature, already available for Ecobee’s thermostat, makes your smart home setup smoother and is available now for all users. On the AI front, Google’s Gemini app is getting smarter with the Gemini 2.5 Pro preview.

This update improves coding skills, helping developers create better apps and websites. It also handles video and text tasks more effectively. The preview is out for everyone to try, with Google planning to share more at its I/O 2025 event. These updates from Google and Ecobee bring small but meaningful improvements, making your car rides, home security, and digital tasks easier and more enjoyable.

Google

Google updates Chrome, Search, and Play Store for better user experience

Published

12 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Tom Carter

Google is rolling out exciting updates to make browsing, searching, and downloading apps smoother and safer for Android users. These changes focus on improving Chrome’s security, redesigning the Google Search bar, and enhancing the Google Play Store’s download process.

Chrome’s Improved Security

Google Chrome now offers stronger protection with “Enhanced Safe Browsing” powered by Gemini Nano, an AI model that works directly on your device. This feature checks websites in real-time to spot phishing attempts and other online threats, keeping your data safe without relying on cloud servers. It’s a step up from the standard protection, giving users more peace of mind while browsing.

Redesigned Google Search Bar

The Google Search bar on Android is getting a fresh look. It’s now simpler and easier to use, with a modern design that fits better with your phone’s home screen. The updated widget lets you access Search, Lens, or voice commands quickly. The new layout is clean and user-friendly, making searches faster and more intuitive.

Better Play Store Downloads

The Google Play Store is improving how it shows app download progress. A new notification design displays a progress bar right in your notification panel, so you can track downloads without opening the app. This small but helpful change makes managing app installs more convenient.

These updates show Google’s focus on creating a safer, simpler, and more efficient experience for Android users. They’re rolling out gradually, so keep an eye out for them on your device!