WhatsApp could soon let mobile users send significantly larger files by message. The platform’s current file size limit is a meager 100MB, but some beta testers have seen that limit increase to a generous 2GB.
Only a limited number of users can take advantage of the change for now. But the hope is that WhatsApp will eventually make the new limit available to all.
WhatsApp’s 100MB file cap is too small
WhatsApp’s current 100MB file cap is enough to share pictures, audio files, and short videos. It’s also good for smaller documents. But if you want to share anything bigger, you currently have to resort to third-party transfer services.
And that seems silly in the age of speedy Wi-Fi and 5G (for many of us, at least). WhatsApp is finally acknowledging that by testing a much larger file transfer limit with a smaller number of users.
WhatsApp tests 2GB file transfer limit
Select beta testers in Argentina now have the ability to send files up to 2GB in size, WABetaInfo reports. A new popup confirms the increased size limit when those users attempt to share an even bigger file.
The alert, which once read, “you can send documents up to 100MB in size,” now says, “you can send documents up to 2GB in size.” However, it’s not yet clear whether this is a change that WhatsApp will keep.
WABetaInfo warns that the increased limit is still in the early testing stages, and that it could be scrapped. However, if testing goes well, WhatsApp could open it up to more people — and eventually all WhatsApp users.
WhatsApp wants to make sharing easier
WhatsApp has been taking steps to make its platform more welcoming to those who want to share content quickly. The Meta-owned company in 2017 added the ability to share any file type — not just photos and videos.
Last year, it also added the ability to share disappearing content — which can only be viewed before it vanishes — which is great for things like Wi-Fi passwords, PIN numbers, and other sensitive information.
