WhatsApp Web and Desktop clients are a blessing for users for enabling replying to texts without the need to pick up the smartphone. WhatsApp will extend the awesomeness of web and desktop clients by rolling out audio and video calling abilities.
Currently, the video and voice calling features are live in beta. This means WhatsApp beta users will be able to make voice and video calls from their desktop or laptop.
Beta users have been reporting that they can now see the new icons for audio and video calling. Interestingly, beta users are also getting a warning screen if they don’t have the camera or allowed camera permissions for placing the video call.
It’s worth noting that users need to keep their smartphones connected to place audio and video calls. The calls will, however, be routed through your desktop or laptop.
Missing From Group Chats
The support for video and audio calling is limited to contact-to-contact chats only but missing from group chats. A report by WABetaInfo states that the new functionalities come with WhatsApp Web version 2.2034.7 for Windows and Mac.
The latest WhatsApp Web update lets you take WhatsApp calls straight from the desktop client and is being beta tested. The latest update does not make WhatsApps’ desktop and web client the first to introduce video and voice calling functionality.
Several other services have been offering the features for quite some time. Of course, given WhatsApp’s big userbase and global presence, it will be one of the best additions.
Competing With Zoom, Hangouts, Duo
With the latest additions, WhatsApp will soon become one of the best alternatives for Zoom, Duo, and Hangouts.
Calling on WhatsApp Web and Desktop shows a pop-up window with caller details and information and the type of call (audio or video). Users will be able to accept or decline the call within the pop-up window.
Users will have a floating window showing the connection status and end call icon with additional options like mute during the call.
The new functions are in beta mode, and it is not known when WhatsApp will extend the new features to all the users with a stable and final update. Stay tuned with us to be in the know about the arrival timeline for the new features.
