How to Send an Instant Video Message on WhatsApp
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1. Introduction: video message on WhatsApp
2. Exploring the new WhatsApp video message feature
3. How to send an instant video message on WhatsApp
4. Maximum duration of WhatsApp video messages
5. The difference between sending a video and a "video message" on WhatsApp
6. Sending video messages with VentaVid

1. Introduction‍

On the 27th of July Mark Zuckerberg shared an update on his Facebook account showing a freshly added video feature. This latest addition to the messaging platform makes it possible to instantly record and share a video message in WhatsApp chats.

Whether you're sharing memorable moments or bringing across important information, knowing how to send an instant video message on WhatsApp can add that extra layer of personalization to your conversations. In this article we'll show you how to send instant video messages on WhatsApp step by step.

2. Exploring the new WhatsApp video message feature

‍WhatsApp consistently introduces new features to improve the user experience, with it's latest addition the ability to send instant video messages. By incorporating this new way of communicating, WhatsApp has given users the power to share not just text but also visual snippets of their lives. From birthday celebrations to breathtaking landscapes, this feature lets you capture and share these moment effortlessly.

3. How to send an instant video message on WhatsApp‍

To send an instant video message on WhatsApp for Android or iOS all you need to do is the following. Access any chat and tap on the voice note icon. Once tapped, the microphone icon will switch to a video icon which enables video mode. Next you can press and hold the video icon to instantly record your message. When ready, simply stop holding the record button and your video will be shared in your chat. So step-by-step:

1 # Open a chat:
Launch your WhatsApp application and open the chat window of the person you want to send the instant video message to. ‍

2 # Tap the voice note (microphone) icon:
Within the chat, you'll see a microphone icon next to the text input field. Tap this icon to make it switch to video mode.

3 # Start recording:
Now, you'll see the video interface. To begin recording, press and hold the video camera icon. While holding, your phone's camera will start capturing the video message.

4 # Record Your Message:
While recording, you can speak directly into your phone's microphone to provide context to the video message.

‍5 # sending video message:
Once you're done, release your finger from the video icon, and the message will be sent automatically.

4. Maximum duration of video messages on WhatsApp

While video messages allow you to share vivid moments, it's essential to know the limitations. WhatsApp imposes a maximum duration for instant video messages to ensure efficient sharing and optimal user experience. Currently, instant video messages can be up to 60 seconds long. This restriction makes sure that users keep their messages concise and engaging. This also makes it easier for recipients to view and respond promptly.

5. The difference between sending a video and a "video message" on WhatsApp

You might wonder, "What's the difference between sending a regular video and a 'video message' on WhatsApp?" The answer lies in the format and purpose. Sending a video typically involves uploading a video file from your gallery, which the recipient can then play. In contrast, an instant video message is a dynamic visual snippet recorded in real-time within the chat. It's more personal, spontaneous, and tailored to the ongoing conversation.

6. Sending a video message via VentaVid

VentaVid is a platform that makes it easy to shoot personalized video messages and share them as stunning interactive pages that connect you to more customers. Are you looking for a software solution to share video messages on a larger scale, with more options to customize your video or to get more insights in who's seeing your video's? Than you should definitely check out VentaVid.

Or are you looking for more information in the differences between VentaVid & WhatsApp. Be sure to check out this special article: VentaVid vs. WhatsApp: The VentaVid Advantage

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How can you keep your video private and secure when sharing on WhatsApp?

Privacy and security are often at the top of the list when it comes to sharing personal videos. Thankfully, WhatsApp makes use of end-to-end encryption for all messages—including video messages—meaning only you and your recipient can view the content. No one in between—not even WhatsApp—can access your shared video.

For extra peace of mind, consider these best practices:

• Always double-check your recipient: Make sure you’re sending your video to the intended contact or group.
• Keep your app updated: Updates often include new security improvements that help fend off vulnerabilities.
• Be cautious with sensitive content: Remember, while encryption adds a layer of protection, recipients could still manually forward or save your video.
• Set up two-step verification: Adding this extra layer makes it harder for someone else to access your WhatsApp account.

By leveraging WhatsApp’s built-in encryption and following these steps, you can confidently share your video messages, knowing your privacy is well protected.
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Can you send very large, high-resolution videos through WhatsApp?

When it comes to sharing videos in pristine 4K or 8K quality, WhatsApp does pose a few challenges that are worth considering.

WhatsApp’s Size Cap:
Currently, the app lets you send videos up to 2GB in size—a considerable leap from the earlier 16MB limit. While this is handy for most everyday clips, exceptionally large or lengthy high-resolution videos (like 4K home movies or project files) may often exceed this cap. If your video surpasses 2GB, WhatsApp simply won’t let you send it.

File Type Compatibility:
Another point to remember is file format. WhatsApp reliably supports popular types such as .mp4, .mkv, and .avi. However, certain advanced codecs—like H.265 (HEVC) or VC9, which are common in ultra-high-definition content—may not be supported. If your video is in one of these less common formats, you might have to convert it before sharing.

Quality Considerations:
Even if you stay within the size and format boundaries, WhatsApp compresses videos to keep transfers quick and storage manageable. While this doesn’t make much difference for casual clips or memes, anyone sharing high-res 4K or 8K footage will notice a reduction in video quality. The recipient will almost always receive a downscaled, compressed version of your original masterpiece.

In summary:

• Sending very large, high-resolution videos through WhatsApp isn’t ideal.
• You’ll need to ensure your video is under 2GB and in a popular format like .mp4.
• Even then, expect the video quality to be noticeably compressed.

If you need to share uncompressed, ultra-high-quality videos, alternative file transfer services or cloud storage platforms (such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or WeTransfer) may be more suitable.
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How does WhatsApp affect the quality of videos sent through its platform?

Although WhatsApp makes it simple and convenient to share videos with friends and family, there are some important things to keep in mind regarding video quality. When you send a video through WhatsApp, especially a file with a high resolution like HD, 4K, or 8K, WhatsApp automatically compresses the video before it’s delivered.

This compression reduces the file size, making it easier to send and receive—even on slower connections or limited data plans. The trade-off, however, is visibly reduced video quality for the recipient. While a funny GIF, meme, or casual clip will generally arrive intact, those breathtaking 4K vacation shots or a professionally shot HD video will look noticeably less crisp once received.

In short, WhatsApp balances speed and accessibility by optimizing videos for quick delivery, but the result is a lower-resolution copy on the other end. This keeps sharing snappy but means that quality is sacrificed along the way.

Sharing Large or High-Quality Videos on WhatsApp: Overcoming Limitations

WhatsApp may be handy for sending quick clips, but what if you need to share that crisp 4K vacation video or a lengthy presentation without stumbling into frustrating obstacles? As it turns out, WhatsApp puts a fence around your creativity: file size restrictions (currently capped at 2GB), supported file formats, and automatic quality reduction are all part of the package.

So, what can you do when your video simply doesn’t fit through WhatsApp’s gate? The answer is to embrace third-party file transfer solutions designed for handling those mega-sized movies and high-definition masterpieces.

Here's a simple approach you can use:

• Upload your video to a reliable cloud storage platform like Google Drive, Dropbox, or WeTransfer. These services are friendly with hefty files and support a wide range of video formats, from standard .mp4s to higher-end codecs.
• Adjust permissions as needed. If you’re sharing sensitive content, set up password protection or restrict access to just your chosen viewers.
• Copy the shareable link that these platforms generate once your upload is complete.
• Paste the link into your WhatsApp chat. Your recipient can stream, preview, or download the video in all its original glory—no worrying about WhatsApp compressing it past recognition or squashing your cinematic ambitions.

By using one of these platforms, you make sure your video arrives looking exactly as intended, whether it’s a quick demo for a client or those drone shots you captured in Iceland. As a bonus, your recipient won’t have to fill up their phone with gigabyte-sized files unless they really want to.

Now that you know how to bypass these built-in limits, you can share any video you like and rest easy knowing the quality—and your message—comes through loud and clear.

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Maximum file size for videos sent through WhatsApp

Beyond time limits, it’s also good to know about file size restrictions when sending regular videos on WhatsApp. The platform allows you to send video files up to 2GB in size. This is a significant increase from the earlier 16MB cap, making it much easier to share longer or higher-quality videos directly from your device. If your video exceeds 2GB, however, WhatsApp won’t allow you to complete the upload—anything larger will need to be trimmed or compressed before sending.

Supported video file formats on WhatsApp

When it comes to sharing videos on WhatsApp, not all file formats are created equal. WhatsApp supports popular video formats like .mp4, .mkv, and .avi, so if your clip is saved in one of these, you’re good to go. However, keep in mind that videos using certain codecs—such as H.265 or VC9, often found in some high-definition or 4K videos—aren’t compatible. For best results, stick with widely used formats and standard codecs (like H.264 within an .mp4 file) to ensure your videos upload and play smoothly for everyone in your chat.

How to send multiple videos on WhatsApp (Android)

Want to share more than just one moment? If you’re using WhatsApp on Android and need to send several videos at once—think party highlights, a vacation montage, or those never-ending cat antics—the process is just as quick and painless. Here’s what to do:

1. Open a chat:
   Launch WhatsApp and jump into the conversation where you want to send your videos.
2. Tap the attachment (paperclip) icon:
   You'll spot this next to your message box. Give it a tap to bring up sharing options.
3. Select the gallery option:
   Choose the gallery icon to access your phone’s videos and photos.
4. Pick your videos:
   Browse through your gallery and tap on each video you’d like to send. Most devices let you select multiple items here—simply tap them one after the other.
5. Send your selection:
   Once you’re satisfied, tap the send button. Your videos will start uploading together, making sure the whole story gets across in one go.

Keep an eye on the familiar checkmarks beside your message—these let you know when your videos have been successfully delivered and viewed.

Different Ways to Send Multiple Videos on WhatsApp (iPhone)

When you want to share more than just a single clip, WhatsApp gives you a couple of straightforward options to send multiple videos at once, making it easy to capture every angle of the moment. Here’s how you can share a whole batch of videos using your iPhone:

Method 1: From Within a WhatsApp Chat

1. Open a Chat Window:
   Start by launching WhatsApp and opening the chat where you’d like to send your videos.
2. Tap the Plus (+) Icon:
   In the bottom left corner, you’ll spot a “+” icon. Tap it to open the sharing menu.
3. Select “Photo & Video Library”:
   From the list of options, choose “Photo & Video Library.” This will let you browse through all the media stored on your iPhone.
4. Choose Multiple Videos:
   Tap on one video to select it, then tap on additional videos you’d like to send. On iPhone, you can usually select up to 30 items at a time.
5. Send:
   Once you’ve made your selection, tap “Done,” add a caption if you wish, and hit the send button. WhatsApp delivers all your chosen videos to your chat in one go.

Method 2: Directly from the Photos App

If you’ve just recorded a set of videos (say, during a birthday party at Vondelpark or a culinary tour through Rome), you might want to share them directly from your Photos app:

1. Open the Photos App:
   Navigate to your videos.
2. Select Your Videos:
   Tap “Select” in the corner, then tap each video you wish to share.
3. Tap the Share Icon:
   Find and tap the share icon (the little square with an arrow).
4. Choose WhatsApp:
   Scroll through the sharing options until you find WhatsApp. Tap it, pick the contact or group you want to send to, and you’re all set.

Tips for Seamless Sharing

• Multiple selections: WhatsApp supports sending several videos at once, but remember that each video has a file size limit (typically up to 16MB per video). For larger files, consider trimming videos before sending.
• Check marks: After sending, look out for the familiar WhatsApp checkmarks—one gray tick means the videos are sent, two gray ticks mean they’ve been delivered, and two blue ticks mean they’ve been viewed.

Sharing multiple videos has never been easier, whether you’re chronicling a holiday or just want to keep your friends updated with daily snippets.

WhatsApp is convenient, but not always enough

WhatsApp is perfect for quick and informal communication. It works well if you just want to send a short video to a colleague or client. But as soon as you want to use video in a more professional way, you quickly run into limitations:

• No option to add branding or a logo
• No insights into whether and how long someone watches your video
• Video quality is often heavily compressed
• No integration with sales or customer systems

VentaVid as the professional alternative

That’s why more and more businesses are choosing VentaVid. This platform is designed specifically for professional video communication. With VentaVid you can:

• Personalize: add your company logo, branding, and a personal message
• Analyze: see exactly who watched your video and how often
• Integrate: easily connect videos to your CRM or email flows
• Stand out: send videos that truly make an impact with your customers

Where WhatsApp stops, VentaVid takes video communication to the next level.

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