WhatsApp is expanding access to an artificial intelligence-powered photo editing feature that allows users to extend images beyond their original boundaries before sharing them in chats or Status updates. The feature, powered by Meta AI, is currently available to select iPhone users as part of a limited rollout.
According to WABetaInfo, the new image expansion tool uses generative AI to create additional visual content around an existing photograph. The technology analyses the original image and generates surrounding details intended to match the scene, allowing users to change its dimensions without stretching the original content.
The feature is integrated into WhatsApp's existing drawing editor, which appears when users select a photograph to share. Users with access to the update can choose the expansion option alongside the platform's other image editing tools.
Once activated, Meta AI processes the photograph and generates an expanded version within a few seconds. The resulting image is presented in a vertical 9:16 format, commonly used for full-screen mobile content.
The format is particularly relevant for WhatsApp Status, where vertical images occupy more of the smartphone display. Users can convert square or landscape photographs into a taller format without manually cropping the original image or adding empty borders.
The feature also gives users control over the generated result. After the image has been expanded, they can preview it within the editing interface before deciding whether to share it.
If the AI-generated extension does not meet their requirements, users can undo the changes and restore the original photograph. They can then attempt another expansion.
WhatsApp does not automatically publish or send the modified image, leaving the final sharing decision with the user.
The functionality is reportedly being introduced to select testers running WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.44.10.16 through Apple's TestFlight programme.
According to the report, some users of the public WhatsApp application downloaded through Apple's App Store have also received access, suggesting that testing is not restricted entirely to the beta programme.
However, the feature is not yet available to all iPhone users, and WhatsApp has not announced a confirmed date for a broader release.
Testing is also underway on Android, with the image expansion capability reportedly reaching select users running WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.44.8.
The development adds another AI-assisted editing function to WhatsApp's existing messaging and media-sharing experience.
By incorporating generative image editing directly into its application, WhatsApp is enabling users to make certain visual adjustments without switching to a separate photo editing platform.
The wider availability of the feature, including whether it will reach all supported devices simultaneously, remains unconfirmed.
For now, access depends on the version of WhatsApp installed and whether the feature has been enabled for an individual account.
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