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WhatsApp Web Finally Gets Voice & Video Calls in Beta After 9 Years

WhatsApp Web is introducing voice and video calling in its beta version, a feature long-awaited since the platform's 2015 launch. The initial beta supports secure, encrypted one-to-one calls and includes screen-sharing functionality. This update bridges a significant gap, as calling was previously limited to the mobile and desktop apps. Future updates are expected to bring group calls for up to 32 people, along with call links and scheduling.

Key Points: WhatsApp Web Beta Adds Voice & Video Calling

  • Beta rollout for desktop browser
  • One-to-one calls with screen sharing
  • End-to-end encrypted via Signal protocol
  • Future group calls for 32 participants
2 min read

WhatsApp Web introduces voice, video calling in Beta after years

WhatsApp Web beta now supports encrypted voice & video calls, with screen sharing. Group calls for 32 people are coming soon.

"calls made via WhatsApp Web are protected with automatic end-to-end encryption - GSM Arena"

Washington, February 11

In a major update for desktop users, WhatsApp Web is finally rolling out support for voice and video calls, nearly a decade after the browser-based platform was first launched in 2015.

As per GSM Arena, the long-awaited feature is currently being introduced through the WhatsApp Web beta program.

For now, the calling functionality is limited to one-to-one voice and video calls. Users who have access to the beta version can also share their screen during an active call, expanding the platform's utility beyond simple messaging.

Until now, voice and video calling on WhatsApp was restricted to its mobile app and desktop application, leaving browser users without direct calling support.

The addition of this feature brings WhatsApp Web closer in functionality to its app-based counterparts.

According to the rollout details by GSM Arena, calls made via WhatsApp Web are protected with automatic end-to-end encryption using the Signal protocol, ensuring secure communication between users.

While the current beta supports only individual calls, group calling capabilities are expected to be introduced at a later stage.

WhatsApp is reportedly planning to enable group calls with support for up to 32 participants. Additionally, features such as call links and scheduled calls are also expected to be gradually rolled out in future updates.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
About time they did this. It's 2024 and we were still stuck without basic calling on the web version. Good to see the end-to-end encryption is still there. Hope the rollout for all users happens quickly.
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David E
As someone who works with international teams, this is a welcome update. The promise of group calls up to 32 people and scheduled calls could really make it a competitor to Zoom/Teams for informal meetings. The security aspect is key.
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Ananya R
Great for students! Online project discussions will be so much easier now. We won't have to rely on other apps. Just hoping it doesn't consume too much data or battery on older laptops.
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Suresh O
While the feature is good, I hope they focus on improving the core experience too. Sometimes messages are delayed on Web, and the sync isn't perfect. Let's get the basics rock solid first.
K
Kavya N
This will be a blessing for video calls with family abroad. Bigger screen, better audio... much better than hunching over the phone. Can't wait for the group call feature for our family WhatsApp group! ❤️

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