By default, WhatsApp will automatically download images over your cellular connection to provide you with quick access to your latest photos.

To configure the settings of automatic photo, video, audio or document downloading, simply go to WhatsApp and tap More > settings > chats and calls > media auto-download.

Here you can choose when WhatsApp will automatically download each type of media.

Images

You can choose never, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi and cellular or Wi-Fi, cellular, roaming. The images will download automatically according to your selected connection.

Video

You can choose never, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi and cellular or Wi-Fi, cellular, roaming. The video will download automatically according to your selected connection.

Audio

You can choose never, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi and cellular or Wi-Fi, cellular, roaming. The audio will download automatically according to your selected connection. Voice Messages are always automatically downloaded for the best communication experience.

Documents

You can choose never, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi and cellular or Wi-Fi, cellular, roaming. The document will download automatically according to your selected connection.

Note: when you select the option Wi-Fi, cellular, roaming, it may result in significantly increased charges from your mobile provider as roaming data is often expensive.

If you have a limited data plan, you may want to restrict media items to auto-download when connected to Wi-Fi only.

Learn how to configure auto-download settings on: Android | iPhone