WhatsApp, the Meta-owned messaging app, is developing a feature to give users more control over autoplay animations in chats. This upcoming functionality aims to enhance personalization and reduce distractions, allowing users to tailor their chat experience according to their preferences.
As reported by WABetaInfo, the feature will enable users to disable animations for emojis, stickers, and GIFs directly from the app’s settings. This option provides a more streamlined approach to managing chat animations, building on previous developments in this area. Users will have three distinct options to manage these animations, offering greater flexibility than ever before.
For emojis, the feature specifically targets the recently introduced animated versions. By disabling the autoplay option, these animated emojis will appear static. Similarly, animated stickers will no longer move unless users interact with them. GIFs, often used to convey reactions or emotions, will also remain stationary unless manually activated by the user.
The new feature is designed to enhance user control, making it easier to manage animations in both individual chats and group conversations. By allowing users to toggle these animations on or off, the feature minimizes potential distractions and ensures a more focused communication experience.
This update aligns with WhatsApp’s broader mission to improve user experience through customizable settings. The new animation control will soon be accessible directly within the app’s settings menu, enabling users to decide which elements of their chats should animate.
By addressing user preferences and streamlining chat interactions, this feature is set to provide a more personalized and distraction-free experience for WhatsApp’s vast global audience. Although the exact release date is not confirmed, it is expected to be part of a future app update.
This innovation highlights WhatsApp’s commitment to evolving its platform to meet the diverse needs of its users while maintaining its reputation as a leading global messaging app.

