WhatsApp is rolling out voice and video call support on the web. The new feature is currently being made available to users enrolled in the company’s beta program. This testing phase is being conducted before a wider release.
With the use of voice and video call support within a browser, WhatsApp users will no longer have to install the app when using a desktop or laptop. The update, which WaBetaInfo reports is currently in beta, supports both voice and video calls. Currently, WhatsApp is testing one-on-one calls so you and a friend can jump on a video call while on your PC.
WhatsApp is said to be working on group chat calls. This feature will support voice and video calls of up to 32 people. However, the report claims that this support is still under development and is being worked on to remove any possible bugs or issues before a release. Additional features in development include call links so that an organizer can send a link to a participant in another chat thread. Organizers will soon be able to schedule calls as well.
The report claims that this feature has been in development for about a year. Over this time, it’s said the company has been working to match the functionality and experience of using voice and video call features within the desktop app.
It’s said that WhatsApp is supporting Screen Share with voice and video call access on the web. Much like on other platforms, users are able to show their screen to other participants.
WhatsApp’s voice and video call features are end-to-end encrypted. This is the same security measure you’ll find across the iOS, Android, and desktop apps. So, only the participants can see or hear the conversation. Meta and WhatsApp don’t have access to the call, nor have any recordings of the call logged to their servers.
The addition of web support for voice and video call access is great for Linux users still waiting for a native desktop app from WhatsApp. However, this will have to do as there’s no word on whether a Linux app will be released. Instead, Linux users will be able to participate in voice and video calls with Windows users without having to join with their phone.
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