WhatsApp Web Finally Gets Native Voice and Video Calling

WhatsApp is officially bridging the gap between its dedicated apps and its browser client as the platform is finally rolling out native voice and video calling on WhatsApp Web. The update arrives shortly after recent reports suggested the feature was being tested on WhatsApp Web, alongside the app testing its new subscription plans.

Voice and Video Calls arrive on WhatsApp Web and Windows

Reported first by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is rolling out voice and video calls to WhatsApp Web, eliminating the need for users to grab their phone to make calls. The initial rollout focuses on 1-on-1 chats where users can simply open a conversation and click on the Call button to start connecting.

Group calling, which is expected to support up to 32 participants, is still in development. This update marks a major step for the platform in simplifying and completing the web-based calling experience. It's worth noting that the Windows app, already supports voice and video calls, both group and individual. 

Consistent with the mobile app, all calls made via the web are secured with end-to-end encryption. The update also brings Screen Sharing capabilities to the web client, where users can present their screens during a video call. This feature was previously limited to desktop and mobile apps.

Voice and Video calls arriving to Web is a win for those who can't run WhatsApp's Desktop app on their computers due to the lack of system resources. Among the platforms benefiting from the update are Linux users or any device with a camera, microphone and a compatible browser.

WhatsApp has been on a roll lately, bringing features like the ability to let new group members see past messages on iOS, introducing strict account settings lock and more. While it's currently restricted to Beta users, the feature is expected to expand to more users over the coming weeks, so stay tuned.