WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that allows users to watch video status updates at 2x speed. The feature is currently being tested with some WhatsApp beta users on iOS and could make it easier to quickly go through multiple status updates.

WhatsApp Rolling Out 2x Video Playback for Status Updates

According to WABetaInfo, the feature is available with WhatsApp beta for iOS 26.36.10.70 through TestFlight. WhatsApp is gradually expanding access to more beta testers, so it may not be available to everyone yet.

How to Watch WhatsApp Status at 2x Speed

The new feature does not require users to open any settings or enable a playback option manually. Instead, WhatsApp uses a simple gesture.

Users need to open a video status and press and hold the right side of the screen. WhatsApp will immediately increase the playback speed to 2x while the finger remains on the screen.

As soon as the user releases the screen, the video returns to its normal playback speed. This also allows users to switch between normal and 2x playback whenever they want while watching a status.

Useful for Longer Status Videos

The new playback option could be particularly useful as WhatsApp recently increased the maximum length of music clips in status updates.

Previously, users could add music clips of up to 15 seconds to a status. A recent update increased the limit to 30 seconds, giving users more flexibility when creating status updates.

However, longer status videos can also take more time to watch, especially for people who regularly view a large number of updates. The 2x playback feature gives users a quick way to get through these videos without skipping them completely.

The feature is not limited to status videos with music. It can be used with any video shared through WhatsApp Status.

Familiar Gesture for Users

The press-and-hold gesture may feel familiar to users of other popular video platforms. Services such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube already offer similar ways to temporarily increase video playback speed.

WhatsApp is bringing a similar experience to its Status section. Since the feature only works while users hold their finger on the screen, they do not need to learn or manage any additional controls.

Currently Limited to iOS Beta Testers

WhatsApp is currently making the 2x status playback feature available to some users running iOS beta version 26.36.10.70.

The feature is still in the testing phase, and WhatsApp has not confirmed when it will reach all users. The company is expected to expand availability.