Goal introduces five new calling features for WhatsAppwith Web Calling as the main update. Web Calling allows individual and group audio and video calls directly from WhatsApp Web, without the need to download an application.
Additional features include Call Transfer, which allows users to move active group calls between devices; Waiting room, which manages group call participants; QuickHD, which provides high-definition video at the start of a call; and noise suppression. Meta points out that the implementation will be gradual.
Meta has not provided a timeline for the release or specified which regions will receive the features first.
Web calls come to WhatsApp Web, in addition to call transfer
Web Calling allows users to make and receive individual and group audio or video calls directly from WhatsApp Web, without needing to download an app. Meta identifies this as the main feature.
Meta claims that web calling includes screen sharing, reactions, and a dedicated Calls tab with full call history and favorites, consistent with features on other devices. Web calls are end-to-end encrypted, have no time limits, and are free. Meta indicates that this feature is aimed at users of shared computers, work laptops that restrict app downloads, or those who prefer browser-based calling.
Call Transfer allows users to move an active group call between devices without disconnecting. For example, a call started on a mobile device or tablet can be transferred to WhatsApp Web or Desktop to continue on a larger screen, or vice versa. This process keeps the call active and does not require participants to reconnect.
Waiting room, QuickHD and noise suppression
The Waiting Room gives call hosts greater control over access to group calls. When “Require approval to join” is enabled for a call link, participants enter a waiting room until the host admits them. This adds an approval step, preventing anyone with the link from joining directly.directly.
QuickHD improves the video experience by providing high-definition video in the first few seconds of a call, rather than waiting for the connection to stabilize.
Noise suppression reduces background noise, ensuring clearer voice quality in noisy or crowded environments. Users can manage this feature at any time through call settings.
How to access the new WhatsApp calling features
As features are gradually rolled out, availability will vary by account and platform. Once available, users can access them as follows:
- Update WhatsApp on all devices, then open WhatsApp Web in a browser and use the Calls tab to access web calling.
- During an active group call, select Call Transfer to move the call to another device you’re signed in to without disconnecting.
- When creating a group call link, enable “Require approval to join” to activate the Waiting Room feature.
- Manage noise suppression during a call through the incoming call settings, where it can be toggled at any time.
Meta states that the rollout of the five features will be gradual, without specifying a time period or which regions or platforms will receive them first. Users who do not see the features after updating WhatsApp may be affected by the phased rollout.
Meta has not confirmed whether Web Calling requires a minimum browser version or whether all five features will be available on all WhatsApp platforms simultaneously.
