Group Calls

WhatsApp is testing group voice and video calls directly in WhatsApp Web, a change that could remove one of the biggest reasons people still install the desktop app. For users on browsers, the platform is starting to look much more complete. The test was first spotted by WABetaInfo and is currently limited to a small group of beta users. For those who have access, call buttons appear inside the WhatsApp Web interface with voice call and video call options. Desktop-level features in the browser The move matters because it brings functions that were previously tied more closely to the desktop client into the browser version. That makes WhatsApp Web a more practical option for people with limited storage, weaker devices, or systems that do not support the official desktop app well. It is also relevant for operating systems that still lack an official WhatsApp desktop client, including Linux. In those cases, the browser can now serve as a more direct path to group calling without requiring another app. Up to 32 people in one group call WhatsApp Web is said to support group calls with up to 32 participants for both voice and video. That matches the level already available in the desktop experience. When starting a call, users do not need to include every group member at once. WhatsApp also lets them choose specific members to invite, which gives more control for smaller meetings or targeted discussions inside larger groups. More than basic calling WhatsApp is also bringing call links to the web version. These links use a secure URL and expire automatically after 30 days of inactivity. That setup makes it easier to share access without adding participants one by one at the same moment. It also helps keep group sessions more organized when a call needs to be distributed across different people. Another feature included in the test is a waiting room for hosts. This allows the host to review and approve participants before they enter the call. Screen sharing is also part of the group-calling test on the web. Users can share their browser screen to present slides, documents, or other material during the call. For work teams, study groups, and community coordination, screen sharing is one of the most important additions. It pushes WhatsApp Web closer to a lightweight online meeting tool while keeping it inside the messaging ecosystem. Still limited to beta users The feature is not yet available to everyone. At the moment, only selected beta users can see the new call controls and try the expanded calling tools. This kind of staged rollout is typical before a wider release. WhatsApp is expected to broaden access to more beta testers first before moving toward a stable launch. No official timetable has been announced for general availability. Even so, the testing points to a steady push to make WhatsApp Web more than just a companion for messaging. With voice calls, video calls, call links, a waiting room, and screen sharing now in testing, the gap between WhatsApp Web and the desktop app is getting much smaller. WhatsApp is also rolling out a new message menu design on Android, but the browser calling upgrade is the development likely to matter most for users who rely on Web access every day. Source: gadgets.beebom.com

WhatsApp Web’s Biggest Upgrade Tests Group Calls, No Desktop App Needed