WhatsApp is becoming more closely connected with Meta's other platforms. The messaging app is rolling out a new feature that allows users to access media from their Instagram and Facebook accounts directly inside WhatsApp.

The feature is being gradually made available to users on Android and iPhone. It is designed to make it easier to share photos, videos, Stories and Reels without repeatedly switching between different apps.

How does the new feature work?

To use the feature, users need to connect their WhatsApp account to Meta's Accounts Center. Once the accounts are linked, Instagram and Facebook will appear as additional sources inside WhatsApp's media picker.

When sending a photo or video in a chat, users can open the media picker and switch between different sources. They can then browse their Instagram or Facebook media and select the content they want to share.

You can also use it for WhatsApp Status

The feature isn't limited to private chats. Users can also select Instagram and Facebook content while creating a WhatsApp Status.

For example, if you recently uploaded a Reel on Instagram and want to share the same content as your WhatsApp Status, you can select it directly from WhatsApp instead of downloading it first.

Stories, posts and Reels can be selected from the connected accounts.

Is linking the accounts compulsory?

No. Accounts Center remains optional on WhatsApp.

Users who prefer to keep their WhatsApp account separate from Facebook and Instagram can continue using the app normally. However, connecting the accounts is required if they want to access Instagram and Facebook media from WhatsApp.

Meta says the integration does not give Facebook or Instagram access to WhatsApp messages or media. WhatsApp messages and calls continue to use end-to-end encryption.

The feature is still rolling out

The new media-sharing option is not yet available to every WhatsApp user. It is being rolled out gradually, with some users receiving it through the latest Android and iOS updates.

If you don't see Instagram or Facebook as a media source yet, you may simply have to wait until the feature reaches your account.

WhatsApp is becoming more connected to Meta

This update is part of Meta's broader effort to connect WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and its AI services.

Meta recently introduced Meta One, a subscription service offering additional features and AI capabilities across Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook and Meta AI. The company says its basic apps and everyday Meta AI experience will remain free.

With WhatsApp increasingly integrating features from other Meta platforms, users may soon be able to manage and share more of their social-media content without leaving the messaging app.