How to Transfer Live Photos on WhatsApp [iOS 18 Supported]

Live photos have revolutionized visual storytelling in 2025, giving users the ability to capture moments with motion and sound. Sharing these dynamic images on WhatsApp ensures friends and family can experience and enjoy your memorable moments as they happened. However, the process of transferring live photos on WhatsApp may not be straightforward for all users. This article will provide step-by-step guidance on how to transfer live photos on WhatsApp, along with common tips and considerations to enhance your experience.

Part 1. What Are Live Photos?

Live photos are a feature available on iPhones that capture 1.5 seconds of motion and sound before and after the shutter is clicked. It creates a short video-like effect, bringing static images to life. While WhatsApp supports sharing photos and videos, sharing such dynamic content requires a specific approach to maintain its "live" aspect.

Part 2. Step-by-Step Guide to Transfer Live Photos on WhatsApp

Step 1. Ensure You Have the Latest Version of WhatsApp

1) Before sending live photos, make sure your WhatsApp app is up-to-date. An outdated version of WhatsApp may not support certain features, including live photo compatibility.
2) Open the App Store (for iPhone users) and check if updates are available for WhatsApp.
3) Install the latest update if required.

Step 2. Convert Live Photos to Video or GIF

WhatsApp doesn't directly support live photos, but you can resolve this limitation by converting live photos into widely accepted formats like GIFs or videos. Here's how you can convert:

1) Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
2) Select a live photo you want to share.
3) Swipe up on the photo and choose "Loop" or "Bounce" to convert it into a short animation.
4) Save the animated file or export it directly as a video.

Step 3. Send Using WhatsApp

Once the live photo is converted to GIF or video, follow these steps to share the file via WhatsApp:

1) Open the desired chat on WhatsApp.
2) Use the paperclip icon or "+" sign to access the sharing options.
3) Select the GIF or video file from your gallery and send it.

Can You Share Live Photos Directly From Your Computer?

No. WhatsApp does not allow users to directly share photos from a computer. If the live photos are stored on a computer, you'll need to transfer them to your phone first and then share them using the WhatsApp app. This restriction ensures compatibility with WhatsApp's system.

Part 3. Tips for Sharing Live Photo on WhatsApp

Tip 1. Optimize File Size

GIFs and videos converted from live photos can sometimes be large, which might impact sharing speed or quality. Use image compression tools or WhatsApp's built-in optimization features to maintain quality while ensuring smooth transfers.

Tip 2. Use Compatible Apps for Conversion

If you're struggling with conversions, there are third-party apps like TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer, which can enhance your overall experience of transferring live photos and other media between iOS devices.

Tip 3. Backup Your Live Photos

Accidental deletion may interrupt your sharing process. Store live photos securely on your device's cloud storage or backup options to prevent data loss.

Tip 4. Use A Third-party Tool to Transfer WhatsApp Video or Live Photos

While transferring live photos is convenient on iPhone devices, users switching between iPhones need additional tool to ensure seamless media sharing. Third-party applications can assist in transferring WhatsApp data, including photos and chats, between iOS devices.

Apps like TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer provide step-by-step instructions to transfer media files and resolve compatibility issues efficiently. This software can cater to users who often switch devices or need to transfer large batches of multimedia files between iOS devices.

TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer is a comprehensive WhatsApp data managing tool with effective features, allowing users to transfer WhatsApp data, back up WhatsApp data, export WhatsApp backup files to computer, and restore WhatsApp backup files to device.

You can follow the steps below to learn how to use TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer to transfer videos or live photos.

Step 1Connect iPhone to Computer

First of all, the program should be downloaded and installed on your computer. Launch TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer on your computer and connect your iPhone/iPad to the computer with a cable. To Transfer WhatsApp data, just select the Transfer feature. You can set the source phone and target phone before transferring WhatsApp data.

Step 2Transfer WhatsApp Videos and GIFs

Click on the Transfer button and TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer will start to transfer the WhatsApp data between your iOS devices. Remember, all your WhatsApp data on your target iOS device will be overwritten after transferring. If you don't want to lose the WhatsApp data on your target phone, you can use the Backup feature to back up the WhatsApp data to your computer first.

Part 4. FAQs About How to Transfer Live Photos on WhatsApp

Q: Can I Transfer Live Photos on WhatsApp Without Conversion?

A: Unfortunately, WhatsApp doesn't support live photo sharing directly. You'll need to convert live photos into GIFs or videos before sharing them on the platform.

Q: Are Live Photos Supported on Android Devices Using WhatsApp?

A: Yes, but only after converting live photos into formats compatible with Android devices, such as GIFs or MP4 videos. Use file conversion tools readily available on both iOS and Android.

Part 5. Conclusion

Sharing live photos on WhatsApp is a creative way to communicate and share moments in motion. While WhatsApp doesn't directly support live photo sharing, users can convert them to GIFs or videos using simple steps outlined above.

For users switching between iOS devices, tools like TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer make transferring WhatsApp data, including live photos, easier and more efficient. By following this guide, you'll elevate your ability to share dynamic and engaging content with your WhatsApp contacts.