According to a WhatsApp blog post, the new web calling feature supports both one-on-one and group calls and includes access to screen sharing, reactions, and a dedicated calls tab for history and favourites.
Meta-owned WhatsApp on Tuesday launched web-based calling, allowing users to make and receive audio and video calls directly from their browsers without the need to download a desktop application.
The feature is part of a suite of updates aimed at improving cross-device functionality.
According to a WhatsApp blog post, the new web calling feature supports both one-on-one and group calls and includes access to screen sharing, reactions, and a dedicated calls tab for history and favourites.
“Whether you’re a college student on a shared computer, using a work laptop that doesn’t allow app downloads, or simply prefer your browser, you can jump on a call without leaving the browser you’re already on,” the blog stated.
In addition to web calling, WhatsApp introduced a ‘call transfer’ feature. This allows users to move an active group call between devices — such as from a mobile phone to a desktop — seamlessly without having to disconnect and rejoin.
To enhance security and management of group interactions, the platform has also debuted a ‘waiting room’ feature. When a call link is created with the “require approval to join” setting enabled, participants will be held in a virtual waiting area until the host grants them entry.