WhatsApp to get ‘double-tap’ feature to forward and rewind videos

This is similar to how one moves forward in a video on YouTube or rewinds to a specific portion in the clip.

Published on: Nov 2, 2023, 06:43:08 IST

By HT News Desk, New Delhi

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Meta-owned WhatsApp could be getting a feature that allows users to skip forward or backward in videos. The feature works in a manner similar to how one moves forward in a video on YouTube or rewinds to a specific portion in a clip.

That WhatsApp is rolling out such a functionality, has been reported by WABetaInfo, a popular website that tracks news and updates related to WhatsApp. WABetaInfo also uploaded a screenshot to explain how this ability would work.

‘Skip video’ feature on WhatsApp

To skip to a particular portion of the clip, simply double-tap the screen (Image courtesy: WABetaInfo)

As per the website, to skip to a particular portion on the instant messaging service, people must tap the screen twice, on its left or right side. The functionality is, therefore, extremely straightforward to use.

Feature availability

The website states that the ability is currently available only to select beta testers and will be made accessible to more people over the coming weeks. Also, to use this feature, you must install the latest WhatsApp beta for Android update from the Google Play Store.

Video player on WhatsApp

Currently, the platform comes with a built-in media player; this, in turn, means that users are not redirected to a pre-installed app on their device, to play clips received from family, friends and group chats. In this player, however, moving to a particular portion of the video is a little complicated. This is because you need to tap the screen for the progress bar to come up, followed by tapping the playback progress at a suitable point to move forward or backward.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More