November 9, 2026, 11:44 am | Read time: 2 minutes
WhatsApp introduces an AI-powered photo extension. It automatically extends images beyond their original borders. The feature is based on Meta AI and is currently available to select users.
Meta AI Completes Missing Image Areas
Photos often do not match the 9:16 aspect ratio intended for status updates. WhatsApp has so far filled the empty spaces with black bars. According to “WABetaInfo,” the new feature analyzes the selected image and generates suitable content for the missing edge areas. This creates an expanded version in the 9:16 format.
The extension is not only suitable for images published in a status. Users can also edit images they want to send in a chat with the new AI tool beforehand. An additional app for image editing is not required.
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How the Photo Extension Works
After selecting a photo in a chat, WhatsApp opens the drawing editor. The extension function appears there alongside the existing AI effects. Meta AI processes the photo and displays an enhanced version in the editor after a few seconds. This can then be sent in a chat or published as a status.
If the result is not satisfactory, the undo function can restore the original image. The extension can then be executed again. With each new attempt, the AI can produce a slightly different version. Users can repeat the process until a suitable image version is created.
Availability on iPhone and Android
The photo extension is currently being rolled out gradually. Access is primarily available to beta testers using WhatsApp through Apple’s TestFlight program. Some users of the regular iOS version can also already use the feature. Additionally, it is available in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android. A broad release for all users is expected in the coming weeks. An exact date for the general rollout is not specified.
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A similar feature is offered by Apple with “Expand” and “Reorient” in photo editing in iOS 27. However, it requires an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence. WhatsApp offers its solution for all iPhone users.
Tools for AI-powered image extension are also available in ChatGPT and Photoshop. WhatsApp integrates this technology directly into the messenger, eliminating the need to switch to a separate application.