WhatsApp Tests AI Image Expansion Tool for iPhone Users: How It Works

WhatsApp is testing a Meta AI-powered image expansion feature that lets users extend photographs directly within the app, helping them adjust images for chats and Status updates.

WhatsApp Tests AI Photo Expansion Feature for iPhone Users Using Meta AI

WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new artificial intelligence-powered image editing feature that will allow users to expand photographs without relying on third-party editing applications. The tool uses Meta AI to generate additional visual details around an image's original borders, making it easier to adjust photographs before sharing them in chats or Status updates.

According to a report by WABetaInfo, the feature is gradually becoming available to selected iPhone users. It analyses an existing photograph and creates additional content around its edges while retaining the original image.

How Will WhatsApp's AI Image Expansion Feature Work?

The upcoming image expansion tool will be integrated into WhatsApp's existing drawing editor. Users will be able to access it while preparing a photograph to share in an individual chat, group conversation or Status update.

After selecting an image, users can open the built-in editing interface, where the new AI-powered option will appear alongside existing editing tools and filters.

Meta AI Will Generate Additional Image Content

When users choose the image expansion option, Meta AI will analyse the selected photograph and generate new visual details beyond its original boundaries. The technology will attempt to create a natural continuation of the existing background and surrounding elements.

This will allow users to increase the visible area of a photograph without stretching or distorting its original content. The feature could be useful when an image appears too tightly cropped or does not fit the desired sharing format.

Expanded Images Will Support Vertical 9:16 Format

According to the report, the tool will generate expanded photographs in a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio. This format is particularly suitable for WhatsApp Status updates, which are designed to occupy the full screen of a smartphone.

For example, users could convert a square or landscape photograph into a vertical image without leaving large empty spaces around it. The AI-generated content would fill the additional areas to make the photograph better suited to the screen.

Users Can Preview and Undo AI Edits

WhatsApp will also provide users with control over the generated results. Before sharing an expanded photograph, users will be able to preview it directly within the drawing editor.

If the AI-generated result does not meet their expectations, they can use the undo option to return to the original photograph and try the process again. Importantly, WhatsApp will not automatically share the edited image. Users will retain control over the final version they choose to send or publish.

WhatsApp AI Image Expansion Feature: Availability and Rollout

The feature is currently being introduced to a limited group of users as part of WhatsApp's testing programme.

According to WABetaInfo, selected iPhone beta testers using WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.44.10.16 through Apple's TestFlight programme have started receiving access. Some users of the public WhatsApp application downloaded from the Apple App Store have also reportedly spotted the feature.

However, the company has not announced an official release date for all iPhone users. Its availability is expected to expand gradually as testing progresses.

WhatsApp Is Also Testing the Feature on Android

The AI image expansion tool is not exclusive to Apple's ecosystem. WhatsApp has reportedly started introducing the same functionality to selected Android beta testers.

The feature has been spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.44.8. This indicates that the company is working towards making the image editing capability available across both major mobile platforms.

However, there is no confirmed timeline for its wider Android rollout either.

What Does the New Feature Mean for WhatsApp Users?

The upcoming AI-powered image expansion tool could make everyday photo editing more convenient by bringing an advanced editing capability directly into WhatsApp.

Users may no longer need to switch between multiple applications simply to adjust a photograph's dimensions or extend its background before sharing it. The feature could be especially helpful for people who frequently post images on WhatsApp Status.

For now, the tool remains limited to selected testers, and its final availability may depend on the feedback received during the testing phase.

Conclusion

WhatsApp's upcoming AI image expansion feature could simplify photo editing by allowing users to extend images directly within the app. With Meta AI integration, preview controls and support for vertical 9:16 images, the tool may offer a convenient way to prepare photographs for chats and Status updates. A wider rollout is still awaited.