WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that lets users access Facebook and Instagram content within the app.
The update allows users to share stories, posts, and reels from their connected Meta accounts. Users can access this content directly through WhatsApp.
According to WABetaInfo, the feature works in both chats and status updates. However, users must first connect their WhatsApp account to Meta’s Accounts Center.
The feature is currently available to some beta testers. It is being tested on the latest WhatsApp beta versions for Android and iOS.
WhatsApp is expected to expand the feature to more users in the coming weeks. However, the company has not announced a specific date for the wider rollout.
Instagram and Facebook Content in WhatsApp
Meta introduced Accounts Center integration for WhatsApp last year. The feature gives users more control over connections between Meta platforms.
Users can link their WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook accounts through Accounts Center. They can then use certain cross-platform sharing features.
For example, users can share WhatsApp status updates to Instagram Stories or Facebook. The latest update expands these options further.
With the new feature, Instagram and Facebook become additional media sources inside WhatsApp. Users can browse content from their connected accounts without opening another app.
The available content includes photos, videos, stories, posts, and reels. Users can select previously shared content and send it through WhatsApp.
New Media Picker Options
The feature adds Instagram and Facebook to WhatsApp’s existing media picker. Users can access these options through the media source list.
When opening the media picker, users can switch to list view. A dropdown menu at the top allows them to select different sources.
Instagram and Facebook appear as additional options for connected accounts. Users can browse available content through a grid layout.
The layout is similar to WhatsApp’s existing media selection screen. Users can scroll through the content and select an item.
They can choose a recent story or an older post from their connected accounts. Reels shared previously can also be selected.
Feature Works in Chats and Status
WhatsApp is also making the feature available when creating status updates. Users can select Facebook or Instagram content for their WhatsApp Status.
The same media selection option works inside individual conversations. Users can directly share selected Instagram or Facebook content with their contacts.
This could make cross-platform content sharing more convenient. Users will not need to switch between multiple Meta apps for certain sharing tasks.
Accounts Center Connection Required
Users must connect WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center to use this feature. Those who prefer separate accounts can continue using WhatsApp without linking them.
If the accounts are not connected, Instagram and Facebook will not appear in the media picker. Accounts Center remains an optional feature for WhatsApp users.
WhatsApp also states that personal messages and calls remain end-to-end encrypted. This protection continues whether users connect their accounts or not.
The integration works in one direction for the new media feature. Instagram and Facebook cannot access media stored in WhatsApp.
Availability
The new feature is currently being tested with selected beta users. It is available on recent WhatsApp beta versions for Android and iOS.
Not every beta tester will receive the feature immediately. Some users may need to wait for a future update.
WhatsApp has not confirmed when the feature will reach all users. The company is expected to expand availability gradually in the coming weeks.
In other related news also read WhatsApp Testing New Notification Bubble Feature on Android
The update further connects WhatsApp with Meta’s wider ecosystem. It gives users another way to access and share their existing social media content.
