WhatsApp Reportedly Testing AR Capabilities for iOS Call Effects Filters in Beta

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature for iOS. According to a feature tracker, WhatsApp for iOS is testing a new feature that uses augmented reality (AR). The feature is said to bring AR capabilities to video calls on the platform, allowing users to customize factors such as light conditions and sounding. Available via a beta update, the feature also reportedly includes the ability to add touch-up filters that change the appearance in real time and a low light mode. Let’s know more about it.

WhatsApp update feature

Features Tracker WABetaInfo AccordingAccording to the report, AR support was first spotted on WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.16.7 in July. It has now arrived on the iOS version as well, following the alleged rollout of WhatsApp beta for iOS version 24.15.10.70 update via the TestFlight program.

As per the screenshots shared, WhatsApp’s new AR capabilities include dynamic facial filters. Users can now reportedly make changes to their appearance, such as the overall colour tone of the video feed, etc. It is also said to include a background editing tool that will allow users to blur their background or replace it with a preset background provided by the instant messaging platform.

The WhatsApp for iOS beta update is also reported to include two different modes, Touch-up and Low-light. While the former is said to add a facial filter that removes blemishes and makes skin look sleeker similar to the face beauty filter on smartphones, the latter is claimed to enhance visibility in low-light environments. The feature tracker revealed that this new function is still a work in progress and only beta testers who have registered themselves through Apple’s TestFlight program may have access to it. It is likely to be rolled out to more users in the next few weeks.

Other new features

Apart from the in-development AR capabilities, WhatsApp also recently expanded its sticker lineup with the introduction of GIPHY-powered stickers. Users can now search for stickers without leaving the app. Apart from this, the custom sticker maker was introduced on iOS in January, now available on Android. If users still can’t find a sticker from the library, they can create their own stickers using the Meta AI artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, which is available on apps of the Meta platform like WhatsApp and Instagram.