WhatsApp Rolls Out Exciting New Features: Live Photos, AI Themes, and Custom Video Call Backgrounds

WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, is taking another big step toward enhancing user experience. With a new set of AI-powered and creative tools, Meta-owned WhatsApp is making communication not just faster, but more expressive and personal. From Live Photos and AI Chat Themes to customizable video call backgrounds and document scanning, these updates are designed to make the app smarter and more enjoyable to use.

1. Share Real Moments with Live and Motion Photos

WhatsApp users can now share their favorite moments more vividly than ever before. The app has introduced Live Photos for iOS and Motion Photos for Android, enabling users to send short moving images with sound. These are not just static pictures — they bring photos to life, capturing emotions and surroundings in motion. Whether it’s a trip, family celebration, or a fun night out, users can now send pictures that truly reflect the moment’s energy and authenticity.

2. Create Custom Chat Themes with Meta AI

WhatsApp had earlier introduced Chat Themes, allowing users to personalize their chat backgrounds. Taking it a step further, Meta has now integrated its advanced AI technology into this feature. With Meta AI, users can generate unique and artistic chat themes tailored to their preferences. For instance, one could ask the AI to create a “sunset beach theme” or “futuristic city vibe,” and WhatsApp will instantly produce a matching background.
However, the feature is being rolled out in phases and may not be available to all users immediately. Still, this AI-driven customization marks a major shift in making WhatsApp a truly personal communication platform.

3. Express More with New Sticker Packs

Adding fun and emotion to chats, WhatsApp has launched two fresh sticker packs — Fearless Bird and Vacation Pack. Each pack includes creative characters and animations that make conversations more playful and engaging. Whether you’re sharing excitement, joy, or humor, these stickers can communicate feelings better than words.

4. Smarter Group Search for Easier Navigation

If you often struggle to remember the name of a WhatsApp group, this new feature will save you time. Now, you can simply search for the name of any person, and WhatsApp will show you all the groups you both share. This smart search upgrade makes it easier to find and reconnect with specific group chats, especially when you’re part of many.

5. Document Scanning Now on Android

Previously limited to iPhone users, WhatsApp’s Document Scanning feature is finally available for Android. Users can now scan, crop, and send documents directly from the app without needing a third-party scanner. This makes WhatsApp a powerful all-in-one communication and productivity tool, ideal for both personal and professional use.

6. AI-Powered Video Call Backgrounds

Video calls are getting a creative twist with Meta AI’s new background customization feature. Users can now change their video call backgrounds to virtually appear anywhere — whether it’s a tropical beach, a modern office, or an artistic setting. Moreover, AI-powered background effects can also be added while taking photos or recording videos in chats, making conversations more dynamic and visually appealing.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s latest feature update reflects Meta’s broader vision — transforming WhatsApp from a simple messaging app into an AI-powered creative communication hub. With Live Photos, AI Themes, and customizable video call backgrounds, the platform is becoming more immersive and personal than ever.

As Meta continues integrating artificial intelligence across its ecosystem, WhatsApp users can look forward to a future where every chat, call, and interaction feels unique, engaging, and intelligently designed.