WhatsApp is introducing a new feature to iOS that allows users to send photos and videos as documents. This new feature will allow users to send photos and videos as documents, maintaining the original quality of the file rather than reducing or compressing it to make it easier to send.

The move was first spotted by WABetaInfo in the official changelog of the WhatsApp 23.24.73 update. According to the update, users can now easily send original-quality media as files. This change replaces the current default method of compressing files before sending.

This feature was reportedly tested as far back as November, but was officially added for iOS users in this patch; Android users should note that a similar feature has been tested since around September. Currently, there is no indication that it is difficult to send these files from an iPhone to an Android user.

There have certainly been several ways to send images as documents, but they have been somewhat complex and difficult to implement for those who are less technically literate. The main method known was to manually change the file extension. An extension is a group of letters at the end of each file, for example, a .JPEG or .PNG file. The method used was to change the files to either DOC or PDF and send them.

The new change would essentially allow users to do this, but with much less effort. Presumably the way to do this is to select the "+" symbol in the chat, then select "Documents," then "Select Photo or Video." Once the file is received, the recipient simply taps on the link and can view the file. However, there does not appear to be a preview of the file, and there is a 2 GB limit on the size of the file that can be sent.

One cause for concern would be the security of the files being sent, especially since there is no preview feature. While it is possible to hide profile pictures, status, and last seen from strangers, there is no way to limit the number of messages sent by other users. Therefore, the most prudent security measure is to never open files of unknown origin, and to protect yourself by utilizing the block feature.

WhatsApp is one of the best conversation tools on smartphones, and any additional features that facilitate its use should be embraced. Being able to send high quality images to each other may not be world changing, but it is a quality of life enhancement that will be appreciated by the billions of people who use the app.