WhatsApp unveils new feature allowing iPhone users to add music to status updates
The new feature, which is rolling out in stages, enables WhatsApp users to attach their favourite tracks from their music library directly to photos or videos shared as part of their status updates.
In a move that will excite iPhone users globally, WhatsApp has introduced a much-anticipated feature allowing users to add music to their status updates.
However, the feature is currently available only to iPhone users, with no official timeline yet for an Android release.
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The new feature, which is rolling out in stages, enables WhatsApp users to attach their favourite tracks from their music library directly to photos or videos shared as part of their status updates.
This integration marks a significant shift for the popular messaging app, which has long been a leader in messaging and media sharing but lacked in-built support for music until now.
Music clips in a photo-based status are limited to 15 seconds, while those in a video status can match the duration of the video.
WhatsApp now joins popular social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and TikTok, which have long had the feature.
How the feature works
Once the update is installed, iPhone users will notice a new "Music" option in the status creation menu.
To use the feature, users simply need to select a photo or video for their status update, then tap the "Add Music" button, where they can browse their music library or pick a song from a range of available songs.
WhatsApp pulls in songs from popular music streaming services such as Apple Music and Spotify, allowing users to add their favourite tunes to their stories.
The feature supports full-track previews of up to 30 seconds, similar to other social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where background music adds an extra layer of engagement to visual content.
Once the status is shared by the user, viewers of that Status can tap on the song label at the bottom to view the name of the track, the artist and the album art in a pop-up-like overlay. Viewers can also tap on the three-dot menu button in the overlay to view the Instagram profile of the artist whose song is featured.
This feature aims to enhance the storytelling capabilities of WhatsApp’s status feature, allowing users to express themselves more creatively.
Whether sharing a moment with friends, promoting an event, or just adding a personal touch to a status, music can now set the tone for the message being shared.
“This new feature brings WhatsApp’s status updates closer to the multimedia experience that many users expect on other platforms. It allows users to add a fun, personalised touch to their stories, which can drive more engagement and interaction,” said Mohammed Ali, a social media expert based in Nairobi.
“Music is a universal language, and its integration into WhatsApp is going to be a game-changer for how we share moments with friends and family.”
Given WhatsApp's popularity, especially in Kenya and other regions of Africa, the new feature is expected to increase user engagement, particularly among younger users who enjoy creating rich, multimedia content.
WhatsApp typically tests new features in phases, so Android users may have to wait for further updates in the coming months.
"I have been waiting for this feature! Finally, I can add my favourite songs to my WhatsApp status just like I do on Instagram. It's perfect for sharing moments with friends," said Martha Nyambura, a WhatsApp user from Nairobi.
However, for now, iPhone users can take full advantage of the update to spice up their status updates with the magic of music.
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