WhatsApp releasing chat photo gallery shortcut

Meta-owned platform WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature to open the photo and video gallery from the chat bar.

This shortcut will be in place of the previous entry point that permitted users to open the camera, which made it easier for users to access their gallery content without the need to navigate through multiple steps, reported WABetaInfo.

Users can directly access their stored photos and videos by tapping this new gallery shortcut, which saves time compared to opening the chat attachment sheet first.

It is also worth noting that in order to record instant video messages, users can still tap and hold the new gallery button, preserving the feature that many rely on for quick video responses.

The new feature is currently only available to a limited group of beta testers, so not everyone will have access to it.

WhatsApp may be utilising this rollout as a testing phase in order to gather feedback and determine users’ convenience.

Additionally, the feature may not be a permanent addition if it does not meet user expectations while having a potential.

However, for users who have access, an improved way to share moments captured outside of WhatsApp without additional steps, has been offered by this gallery shortcut.