- WABetaInfo shared a new WhatsApp web update
- WhatsApp will soon allow users to make calls from their desktops
- The new update adds voice and video calling capability
- No official release date announced yet by the company
Given the current situation, video calls are one of the most used modes of communication. And in times like these, video-calling companies such as Facebook, Zoom, and Google, have taken full control over the market. Whatsapp is also adding to its desktop application the ability to make calls. According to WABetaInfo, the Facebook-owned company will soon introduce the calling features in its desktop app.
Whatsapp has started working on this feature in one of its test builds. It was seen in a recent update within the web client identified as version 2.2043.7. This feature, though under development, includes support for voice and video calls for individuals as well as groups. It is still in beta mode, implying the company is still testing it out before actual release. With this update, Whatsapp will bring its desktop/web client up to speed with its Android and iOS apps.
How does it work?
WABetaInfo, a WhatsApp feature tracker, shared that version 2.2043.7 will have integrated support for voice and video calls on the desktop client. In the released screenshot, it is shown that when the user gets a call, a pop-up window will appear on their desktop. Users can either accept or reject calls from the on-screen options within the pop-up. An ‘Ignore’ option will also be present at the bottom of the pop-up.
On the other hand, while making a call from your desktop, a smaller pop-up appears. It will display the options to start the video, mute, decline, and other settings. However, the group call feature is not available to test but will be added to the desktop client later. Earlier this year, Whatsapp updated the group call limit from four to eight users. Probable, the desktop/web client will also adhere to this limit.
With this update, it will be easier for users to shift back and forth between different devices. It would make the experience more seamless without needing to alternate between the work-PC and the mobile phone. Call support on Whatsapp will make it further independent by not relying on smartphones. Though users still need to connect these devices to log in, Whatsapp is working on its linked device login support. This will make it easier to access Whatsapp from multiple devices and is eagerly awaited by its users.
Users can still make video calls from Whatsapp on the desktop if they use the shortcut to create Facebook Messenger Rooms. The release date for Whatsapp web is still not announced, and users may have to wait before it becomes available.