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WhatsApp Adds Voice and Video Calling to Its Web App

Users can transfer active calls between phone, desktop and browser with calls staying end-to-end encrypted.

Overview

  • WhatsApp began a gradual global rollout Tuesday that lets people make and receive one-on-one and group audio and video calls directly in a browser without installing an app.
  • The update includes Call Transfer so an active call can move between phone, desktop and web without dropping the connection.
  • Hosts can enable a Waiting Room that requires approval for participants who join via a link, giving meeting creators control over who enters a group call.
  • Call-quality upgrades include QuickHD for near-instant high-definition video, new noise suppression to cut background sound, plus parity features like screen sharing, reactions and a Calls tab with full history.
  • Availability will vary during the staged rollout and WhatsApp has separately opened username reservations that could later let people find and call one another across platforms.