WhatsApp Brings Voice, Video Calling to Web
WhatsApp has introduced voice and video calling on web browsers, alongside new features including Call Transfer, Waiting Room and QuickHD video.
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WhatsApp is expanding its calling experience with the addition of voice and video calls directly from web browsers allowing users to make and receive calls without having to download the desktop app.
The update is part of a wider rollout that also introduces Call Transfer, Waiting Room, QuickHD video and Noise Suppression, to make conversations more seamless and flexible across devices.
Kunal Shah, founder of CRED, also posted a light-hearted post on LinkedIn along with the announcement, joking that "WhatsApp calls work in your browser now. You now have some actual useful company for your 47 open Chrome tabs. The post went viral, demonstrating how well browser-based calling could fit into people’s existing work and browsing habits.
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Browser calling without an app:
With the latest update, users can make and receive one-to-one and group voice and video calls directly through WhatsApp Web with supported browsers. Until now, using desktop calling meant having to install WhatsApp’s dedicated desktop app.
The browser version adds a number of features already on mobile and desktop, including screen sharing, emoji reactions and a dedicated Calls tab to see recent calls and favourite contacts. As with all WhatsApp communications, browser-based calls are also protected by end-to-end encryption.
The feature is likely to be particularly handy for users using office computers, shared systems or devices where installing software is restricted.
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New features for group calls:
WhatsApp has also launched Call Transfer, which lets users transfer an ongoing group call between devices without dropping the call.
For example, users can start a group call on their smartphone, then move to a computer to continue the call via WhatsApp Web or the desktop app, and then switch back to their phone later if necessary.
Another new feature, Waiting Room, gives hosts more control over participants joining group calls created through call links. With the feature “Require approval to join” turned on, attendees will be placed in a waiting room until the host lets them in.
The feature is designed to provide more control over meetings, community discussions and family calls by stopping unapproved participants from joining immediately.
