Troubleshooting

Media Upload and Format Errors

Fix common image, video, and PDF upload errors related to file size, format, and encoding for Templates and Inbox.

What it is

WhatsApp enforces strict limits on media file size, format, and encoding for images, videos, documents, and audio.

Media uploaded to Templates and sent via Inbox must meet these requirements or they will fail to send.

DeelFlows validates media files at upload time and shows errors when files don't meet requirements.

When to use it

When you receive an error uploading images, videos, or documents to a Template or Inbox message.
When media files fail to send or appear broken in conversations.
When you want to understand WhatsApp's media requirements before creating content.

Step by step

1. Check Image Requirements

WhatsApp supports JPEG and PNG image formats.

Maximum file size: 5 MB.

Recommended dimensions: 1200 x 628 pixels for Templates, or up to 1600 x 1600 pixels for square images.

If your image exceeds 5 MB, compress it using a tool like TinyPNG or reduce dimensions before uploading.

Avoid uploading images in formats like HEIC, BMP, TIFF, or WebP—convert them to JPEG or PNG first.

2. Check Video Requirements

WhatsApp supports MP4 and 3GP video formats.

Maximum file size: 16 MB.

Video must use H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec.

Maximum duration: No strict limit, but keep videos under 3 minutes for best performance.

If your video is too large, reduce resolution (e.g., 720p instead of 1080p) or compress using a tool like HandBrake.

3. Check Document Requirements

WhatsApp supports PDF, DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX, PPT, and PPTX formats.

Maximum file size: 100 MB.

Ensure documents are not password-protected—WhatsApp cannot deliver encrypted files.

If your PDF is too large, compress it or split it into smaller files.

4. Fix Upload Errors

If DeelFlows shows a 'file too large' error, reduce the file size and try again.

If the error says 'unsupported format', convert the file to a supported format.

If the upload succeeds but the media doesn't appear in messages, check that the file isn't corrupted—try opening it locally first.

For persistent errors, contact DeelFlows support with the file details and error message.

5. Optimize Media for Best Performance

Use JPEG for photos and PNG for graphics with transparency.

Compress images and videos before uploading to reduce file size and improve delivery speed.

Host very large files externally and send a link in the message instead of uploading directly.

Test media on mobile devices to ensure it displays correctly before using in Broadcasts or Templates.

FAQ & gotchas

Why does my video fail to upload even though it's under 16 MB?

The issue is likely the video codec. WhatsApp requires H.264 video and AAC audio. Use a tool like HandBrake to re-encode the video with these codecs.

Can I upload GIF files?

WhatsApp does not support animated GIFs. Convert the GIF to an MP4 video using a tool like ezgif.com, then upload the video.

What happens if I try to send media that's too large?

DeelFlows will reject the upload and show an error. The message will not be sent. Reduce the file size and try again.

Can I send audio files?

Yes. WhatsApp supports AAC, MP3, AMR, and OGG audio formats. Maximum file size: 16 MB. Audio can be sent as voice messages or document attachments.

Why does my image look blurry after uploading?

WhatsApp compresses images to reduce file size. To minimize quality loss, start with high-resolution images (at least 1200 pixels wide) and compress them before uploading.