How many megabytes can I send on WhatsApp - briefly?
You can send up to 16 MB of data per message on WhatsApp. For media files, the limit is 100 MB for photos and videos combined.
How many megabytes can I send on WhatsApp - in detail?
WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging platforms worldwide, allowing users to share a wide range of content, from text messages to multimedia files. However, like any other service, there are certain limitations on the size and type of files that can be sent. Understanding these limits is crucial for optimizing your communication and ensuring smooth interactions with your contacts.
File Size Limits
Individual Files:
For standard users, WhatsApp allows you to send individual files up to 16 MB in size. This includes photos, videos, documents, and other media types. If a file exceeds this limit, you will receive an error message indicating that the file is too large to be sent.
Media Files:
- Photos: WhatsApp compresses photos before sending them, which helps in reducing the size of the files. However, if the photo's original size is larger than 16 MB, it will not be sent successfully.
- Videos: Similar to photos, videos are also compressed. The maximum duration for videos is 16 minutes, but the file size should not exceed 16 MB. Longer videos or those with higher resolutions may need to be trimmed or compressed before sending.
Compression and Quality
WhatsApp uses compression algorithms to reduce the size of media files before transmission. This helps in maintaining the service's efficiency and speed, but it can also affect the quality of the sent content. For example, high-resolution photos may lose some detail during the compression process.
Sending Larger Files
If you need to send larger files, WhatsApp offers a workaround by allowing you to send documents instead of media files. Documents can be up to 100 MB in size. To use this feature:
- Open WhatsApp and go to the chat where you want to send the file.
- Tap on the attachment icon (paperclip) at the top right corner of the screen.
- Select "Document" from the list of options.
- Choose the file you want to send from your device's storage.
Business Accounts and API Limits
For businesses using WhatsApp Business API, there are different limits and capabilities:
- Media Files: The size limit for media files is 16 MB, similar to standard users. However, businesses can also send files up to 100 MB through the "Document" option.
- Message Rate Limits: WhatsApp Business API imposes rate limits on message sending to prevent abuse and ensure service quality. These limits vary based on the type of message (text, image, video) and the number of recipients.
Conclusion
Understanding the file size limits on WhatsApp is essential for ensuring that your messages are delivered successfully. While standard users have a 16 MB limit for individual files, documents can be up to 100 MB. For businesses using the WhatsApp Business API, similar limits apply, but additional capabilities and rate limits should be considered. By adhering to these guidelines, you can optimize your communication on WhatsApp and avoid common pitfalls related to file size restrictions.