WhatsApp for iOS Update Launches Free VoIP Calling, Plus More

WhatsApp has just updated their iOS app to bring free VoIP calling, a feature many have been anticipating. The feature is rolling out over the next several weeks (we don’t see it yet).

Also new in this update is support for the iOS 8 share extension sheet, a quick camera button in chats, the ability to edit contacts in the app and also the option to send multiple videos:

What’s New in Version 2.12.1
• WhatsApp Calling: Call your friends and family using WhatsApp for free, even if they’re in another country. WhatsApp calls use your phone’s Internet connection rather than your cellular plan’s voice minutes. Data charges may apply. Note: WhatsApp Calling is rolling out slowly over the next several weeks.

• iOS 8 share extension: Share photos, videos, and links right to WhatsApp from other apps.

• Quick camera button in chats: Now you can capture photos and videos, or quickly choose a recent camera roll photo or video.

• Edit your contacts right from WhatsApp.

• Send multiple videos at once and crop and rotate videos before sending them.

The iOS app still remains with its classic design, despite the Android version recently gaining a material design makeover.

Just last week, WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum revealed the messaging service now has 800 million monthly active users. While iMessage remains our primary form of messaging, WhatsApp serves as a quick way to communicate with friends and family that don’t have iPhones. Plus, whenever iMessage goes down, WhatsApp seems to be a great backup.

Click here to download WhatsApp for iOS—it’s free for one year, then $0.99 USD/year afterwards.

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