WhatsApp May Soon Allow Users to Import Profile Photo from Facebook, Instagram: Beta Test Reveals

WhatsApp is currently testing a new feature for Android users that could streamline how users set up their display pictures. According to a report from WABetaInfo, the new functionality is being trialed in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.21.23. This version includes additional options in the profile settings, aimed at making the user experience more seamless.

What’s New in Profile Photo Options?

Existing vs. New Options

Currently, users can set their display picture (DP) using:

• Camera

• Gallery

• Avatar

• Meta AI

With the beta update, two additional options appear:

• Facebook

• Instagram

These new choices allow users to import their profile photos directly from their connected Meta accounts — eliminating the need to download the image manually.

“This new feature could eliminate that extra step and make things faster for users who maintain the same identity across all Meta-owned platforms.”

Meta Accounts Centre Integration Required

To use this feature, WhatsApp users will need to link their account through Meta’s Accounts Centre — an existing system that enables cross-app login, story posting, and now, profile syncing. This is part of Meta’s broader plan to deliver a more connected and unified ecosystem across its platforms — Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

“Users will be able to tap on the existing profile photo and select either Facebook or Instagram to import a new one.”

Privacy Still a Priority

Importantly, WhatsApp has clarified that this feature will not be enabled by default. Users will have the option to opt-in manually, preserving their control over cross-platform connections.

“Users will have the choice to link their accounts or keep them separate. The feature will be disabled by default.”

Meta has also reiterated that WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption remains intact and will not be affected by the new profile photo syncing functionality.

Currently in Limited Beta Testing

This update is still in the development phase and has only been made available to users enrolled in the Google Play Beta Programme. There is no official release date yet, but it's expected to roll out to all users in upcoming updates.

Expected Public Availability

While Meta has not provided a fixed timeline, features introduced in WhatsApp beta often roll out to the public within a few weeks to a few months — depending on feedback and stability.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s upcoming feature that allows users to import profile pictures directly from Facebook and Instagram marks another step forward in Meta’s strategy to unify its platforms and streamline the user experience. By eliminating the need to manually download and upload photos from other apps, WhatsApp simplifies the process of setting up or updating a profile picture—particularly for users who prefer to maintain a consistent digital identity across all Meta-owned platforms.

This integration also showcases the growing importance of Meta’s Accounts Centre, which already facilitates cross-posting, centralized account management, and single login access across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. While the feature remains optional and privacy-centric—disabled by default and maintaining end-to-end encryption—it reflects Meta’s broader vision of building an interconnected ecosystem that prioritizes ease of use without compromising user control or security.

As the digital world continues to evolve, such innovations point toward a more seamless, personalized, and integrated social media experience.