WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature for its Android application that will simplify the process of importing profile pictures from other social media platforms. Insights from a feature tracker suggest that this update may enable users to directly import profile images from Meta-owned platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. This initiative builds on existing cross-platform functionalities such as single sign-on and unified avatar management.
Importing Profile Photos on WhatsApp
According to information from WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo, the feature is being rolled out in the WhatsApp beta version 2.25.21.23 for Android. Users who update to this version will reportedly find an option to import profile photos directly from Facebook and Instagram, accessible in the profile section of WhatsApp settings.
To change their profile picture, users typically select their current image and choose the Edit option. Previously, users had options to capture a new photo, import one from their device gallery, create an avatar, or generate an image using Meta AI. However, screenshots shared by the feature tracker reveal the addition of two new options for importing images directly from Facebook and Instagram.
The feature is expected to automatically retrieve the profile picture currently in use on the user’s linked account. However, there may be a requirement for users to connect their WhatsApp account to the Meta Accounts Centre, which manages interactions between Meta’s various applications.
Previously, if a user wanted to use their social media profile photo on WhatsApp, they had to upload it from their local storage. The alternative was to download the image from Facebook or Instagram and manually upload it to WhatsApp. The new integration is anticipated to streamline this entire process.
WABetaInfo indicated that this feature is disabled by default, giving users full control over whether they choose to link their accounts. Notably, linking Meta accounts is not expected to compromise WhatsApp’s fundamental privacy measures, such as end-to-end encryption.
The feature tracker added that the capability to import profile images from Facebook and Instagram is still under development for Android. Currently, it is accessible only to beta testers enrolled in the Google Play Beta program, with a potential rollout in future updates of the app.
