WhatsApp Web starts rolling out voice and video calls

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 what WABetaInfo said:

“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, users can also take advantage of the Screen Share feature.

According to WABetaInfo, while the initial rollout appears to be limited to beta users, the platform will expand access over the coming weeks.

The feature is expected to become available to users outside the beta program soon.

As for group calls, there is still no official ETA for their arrival on WhatsApp Web.

However, once launched, group calls are expected to support both voice and video calls with up to 32 participants.

The feature is also expected to include call links and scheduled calls.

To enroll in WhatsApp Web’s beta program, go to Settings > Help and Feedback, then enable the “Join the Beta” option.

While immediate access to voice and video calling on the web is not guaranteed, beta users are typically among the first to receive new features as they roll out.