Uploading high quality videos to WhatsApp status allows you to share richer content with your contacts. The key is optimizing your videos before uploading them. Here are the main steps:
1. Choose the Right Video Format
WhatsApp supports the following video formats for status:
- MP4
- 3GP
- WMV
- ASF
- AVI
- MKV
- MPEG
MP4 and 3GP are the most commonly used and reliable formats. Avoid uploading in MOV, FLV, M4V or other formats not supported by WhatsApp.
2. Optimize Resolution
WhatsApp downscales videos larger than 640×480 pixels. So it’s best to resize your video to under this resolution before uploading. This prevents quality loss from WhatsApp’s downscaling.
On Android and iOS, you can resize videos within the Gallery app before sharing to WhatsApp. On desktop, use video editing software like Windows Movie Maker or iMovie.
3. Reduce File Size
WhatsApp limits video files to 16MB. Larger files will fail to upload. Here are some tips to reduce file size:
- Use a video compressor app to reduce file size without losing too much quality.
- Lower the video’s bitrate. Videos with lower bitrates have smaller file sizes.
- Shorten long videos by trimming unnecessary parts.
- Use a lower resolution if the video still looks decent.
4. Avoid Excessive Length
WhatsApp limits status videos to 30 seconds. While you can upload longer videos, only the first 30 seconds will be visible. Stick to 30 seconds or shorter for optimal results.
5. Check Audio Levels
Make sure audio is audible but not too overpowering. Use editing software to normalize audio or adjust volume levels accordingly.
Also check that the audio sounds clear without cracking, clipping or distortion. Rerecord the audio if necessary.
6. Ensure Proper Rendering
Before uploading, preview the video to check it plays properly from start to finish. Confirm:
- No green flickering or garbled visuals
- Audio plays smoothly without cutting out
- Playback resumes properly after pausing
If you notice rendering issues, try re-encoding the file with optimized export settings in your video editor before uploading.
7. Give Video an Appealing Thumbnail
WhatsApp auto-extracts a thumbnail image from your video to display in your status. But you can override this with a custom thumbnail for more appealing results.
To set a custom thumbnail on Android:
- Go to Gallery and select the video.
- Tap the thumbnail and select which frame to use as the custom thumbnail.
On iOS:
- Open the video in Photos.
- Tap Edit, then select a frame to use as a thumbnail.
For desktop, use video software to export with your chosen thumbnail image.
8. Correct Orientation Before Uploading
If your video shows up sideways or upside down after uploading, it’s because the orientation metadata is incorrect. Fix this before uploading:
- On iOS, use the Rotate button in Photos to set proper orientation.
- On Android, rotate in Gallery or use an Exif editor to correct orientation.
- On desktop, use video software to adjust orientation and re-export.
9. Upload Over Strong Internet Connection
Uploading large videos can take time and may fail over slower connections. For best results:
- Connect to stable Wifi instead of cellular data.
- Avoid switching between connections mid-upload.
- Upload when internet speeds are fastest, like non-peak hours.
If upload fails repeatedly, try compressing the video further before attempting again.
10. Share Videos Directly to WhatsApp
On Android and iOS, open your video in the Gallery or Photos app, then use the Share menu to select WhatsApp. This gives you more control than uploading directly within WhatsApp.
On desktop, download the video to your computer first, then attach and upload it within WhatsApp for the best experience.
11. Double Check Your Uploaded Video
Preview your video after it finishes uploading to make sure:
- It uploaded properly without any errors.
- The quality looks good and wasn’t degraded.
- The thumbnail displayed is what you selected.
- The video length is 30 seconds or under.
If anything looks wrong, delete it and try uploading again until you get the results you want.
12. Monitor View Count and Feedback
Check back occasionally to see how many views your video gets. This helps assess if your status connects with your audience.
Also look for direct feedback from contacts. Consider their comments to improve your next video.
Low view count or negative feedback indicates your status videos may need improvement in some area.
Conclusion
With the right preparation, you can upload stunning, high-quality videos to WhatsApp status. The key steps are choosing the optimal format and resolution, reducing file size, fixing orientation issues, setting a custom thumbnail, and uploading over a strong connection. Putting in this effort delivers a polished, professional result your contacts will love viewing.