WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion active users. One of its most convenient features is the ability to send videos to friends and family. However, there’s a catch – WhatsApp has a file size limit of 16 MB, which translates to a video duration of around 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the video quality. But what if you need to send a longer video, like a 4-minute video? Is it possible? The short answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll explore the various methods to do so.
Understanding WhatsApp’s Video Size Limit
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why WhatsApp has a file size limit in the first place. There are several reasons for this:
- Bandwidth conservation: By limiting the file size, WhatsApp reduces the amount of bandwidth required to send and receive files, making the app more efficient and faster.
- Server storage: With millions of users sending files every day, WhatsApp needs to conserve server storage space to ensure seamless operation.
- User Experience: WhatsApp aims to provide a smooth user experience, and large file sizes can lead to longer upload and download times, which can be frustrating for users.
Method 1: Trim the Video
One of the simplest ways to send a longer video on WhatsApp is to trim it down to a shorter duration. You can use video editing software or apps to trim the video and split it into smaller clips. Here’s how:
Using a Video Editing App
Download a video editing app like Adobe Premiere Rush, InShot, or VN Video Editor. Import the video, select the trim tool, and choose the desired duration. You can then split the video into multiple clips and send them separately on WhatsApp.
Using a Computer
If you have a computer, you can use video editing software like iMovie, Adobe Premiere Pro, or DaVinci Resolve to trim the video. Import the video, select the trim tool, and choose the desired duration. You can then export the trimmed video in a compatible format and send it via WhatsApp Web or the WhatsApp desktop app.
Method 2: Compress the Video
Another way to send a longer video on WhatsApp is to compress it to reduce its file size. Video compression reduces the video quality, but it’s a viable option if you’re not too concerned about high-quality video. Here’s how:
Using a Video Compression App
Download a video compression app like Video Compressor,_compress, or Reduce Video Size. Import the video, select the desired compression level, and export the compressed video. You can then send the compressed video on WhatsApp.
Using Online Tools
You can also use online video compression tools like Online-Convert, Clipchamp, or SmallPDF. Upload the video, select the desired compression level, and download the compressed video. You can then send the compressed video on WhatsApp.
Method 3: Use a File Sharing Service
If you need to send a high-quality video that’s longer than 4 minutes, consider using a file sharing service like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, or WeTransfer. Here’s how:
*h3>Upload the Video to a File Sharing Service
Upload the video to a file sharing service, making sure to choose the highest quality settings. You’ll receive a shareable link that you can send to the recipient via WhatsApp.
Sending the Link via WhatsApp
Send the shareable link to the recipient via WhatsApp. They can then click on the link to download or stream the video.
Method 4: Use WhatsApp’s Native Video Sharing Feature
WhatsApp recently introduced a native video sharing feature that allows users to send videos up to 4 minutes long in some countries. This feature is currently available in India and a few other countries, and it’s expected to roll out globally soon. Here’s how:
Check if the Feature is Available in Your Country
Check if the WhatsApp video sharing feature is available in your country by going to the WhatsApp settings and looking for the “Video” option. If you see an option to send videos up to 4 minutes, you’re good to go!
Send the Video
Select the video you want to send, and WhatsApp will automatically compress it to ensure it meets the file size limit. You can then send the video to your friends and family.
Conclusion
Sending a 4-minute video on WhatsApp may require some workarounds, but it’s definitely possible. By trimming the video, compressing it, using a file sharing service, or using WhatsApp’s native video sharing feature, you can share longer videos with your friends and family. Remember to always check the WhatsApp file size limit and adjust your video accordingly to ensure seamless sharing.
What is the default video sharing limit on WhatsApp?
The default video sharing limit on WhatsApp is 30 seconds. This means that if you try to send a video that is longer than 30 seconds, WhatsApp will automatically trim it down to 30 seconds before sending it. This limit is in place to ensure that the video sharing experience on the platform is seamless and doesn’t consume too much data.
However, with the hack we’ve shared in this article, you can bypass this limit and send videos that are up to 4 minutes long. This is especially useful if you need to share a longer video with friends, family, or colleagues. By using a third-party app to trim and compress your video, you can share longer videos on WhatsApp without any issues.
Why does WhatsApp have a 30-second video sharing limit?
WhatsApp has a 30-second video sharing limit to ensure that the video sharing experience on the platform is seamless and efficient. The company wants to prevent users from sharing large video files that can consume too much data and slow down the platform. By limiting video shares to 30 seconds, WhatsApp can ensure that users can quickly and easily share videos without experiencing any delays or issues.
Additionally, the 30-second limit also helps to prevent spamming and misuse of the platform. With a shorter video limit, users are less likely to share irrelevant or unwanted content with their friends and family. By bypassing this limit, you can share longer videos, but you should do so responsibly and only share content that is relevant and useful to the recipients.
What kind of videos can I send on WhatsApp?
You can send a wide range of videos on WhatsApp, including personal videos, funny clips, educational content, and more. With the hack we’ve shared, you can even send longer videos, such as tutorials, presentations, or event recordings. As long as the video is in a compatible format and is compressed to a reasonable size, you can share it with your friends and family on WhatsApp.
Just make sure that the video you’re sharing is not copyrighted or sensitive in nature. WhatsApp has strict policies against sharing copyrighted or inappropriate content, so make sure you have the necessary permissions and rights before sharing any video.
Can I send videos from my phone’s gallery?
Yes, you can send videos from your phone’s gallery on WhatsApp. In fact, most people share videos from their phone’s gallery on WhatsApp. To do this, simply open WhatsApp, go to the chat where you want to share the video, tap the attachment icon, and select the video from your gallery. If the video is longer than 30 seconds, you can use the hack we’ve shared to compress and trim it before sharing.
Make sure the video is in a compatible format and is not too large in size. If the video is too large, you may need to compress it before sharing it on WhatsApp.
How do I compress a video on my phone?
Compressing a video on your phone is a simple process that can be done using a third-party app. There are many video compressor apps available for both Android and iOS devices. Some popular options include InShot, Video Compressor, and VidCompact. These apps can compress your video to a smaller size without sacrificing its quality.
Once you’ve downloaded and installed a video compressor app, simply select the video you want to compress, choose the compression settings, and let the app do the rest. The app will compress the video to a smaller size, making it easier to share on WhatsApp.
Is it safe to use a third-party app to compress videos?
Yes, it is safe to use a third-party app to compress videos, as long as you download the app from a trusted source such as the App Store or Google Play Store. Reputable video compressor apps do not collect or store your personal data, and they do not harm your device in any way.
However, as with any third-party app, it’s always a good idea to read the app’s terms of service and privacy policy before using it. This will help you understand how the app collects and uses your data, and what permissions it requires.
Can I use this hack to send videos on other messaging apps?
The hack we’ve shared is specific to WhatsApp, but you can use similar techniques to send longer videos on other messaging apps as well. Many messaging apps have their own video sharing limits, and using a third-party app to compress and trim your video can help you bypass these limits.
However, please note that different messaging apps have different video sharing limits and requirements. You may need to use different compression settings or formats to share videos on other messaging apps.