The feature is now starting to reach WhatsApp Web beta users, with a wider rollout expected for the coming weeks. Here’s how it works.
Rolling out now to beta users
A few weeks ago, WABetaInfo reported that Meta was gearing up to bring voice and video calling to group chats on WhatsApp Web, a feature that had previously been limited to the platform’s official desktop apps.
Now, the website reports that the feature is beginning to roll out for users enrolled in WhatsApp’s beta program, starting with one-on-one chats.
This means that while web-based voice and video calls in group chats remain under development, WhatsApp Web beta testers are now starting to get access to calling in one-on-one conversations.
Here’s WABetaInfo:
“The feature has been in development for about a year, over which time WhatsApp has refined the experience to match the functionality offered by desktop apps. This initial rollout focuses on individual chats, allowing users to place both voice and video calls without installing the desktop app. Users can simply open a chat and click the call button to start.”
The report notes that, like on iOS, web-based calls are end-to-end encrypted using Signal’s protocol. For video calls, it is possible to use the Screen Share feature.
Finally, WABetaInfo says that while the initial rollout appears to be exclusive to users enrolled in WhatsApp Web’s beta test program, the platform “will roll out this feature to more users, making it available even to users outside the beta program” over the next few weeks.
As for group calls, there’s still no ETA for when they’ll arrive on WhatsApp Web. But when the feature does launch, it’s expected to support both voice and video calls with up to 32 participants, along with call links and scheduled calls.
To enroll in WhatsApp Web’s beta program, click on Settings > Help and Feedback, then toggle the “Join the Beta” switch. While it’s not guaranteed that you will get immediate access to voice and video calling on the web from the get-go, you will likely be among the first to receive new WhatsApp Web features as they roll out.
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