Meta extends WhatsApp calling capabilities to web platform
The latest update to WhatsApp for Web brings audio and video calling, screen-sharing, and background noise suppression to the browser interface, aligning the service with its native applications.
Meta has enabled audio and video calling functionality on WhatsApp for Web, a significant update that closes a long-standing gap with the smartphone and native desktop applications. Previously, the web interface lacked native calling capabilities, forcing users to rely on other devices for voice or video communication. The update introduces several enhancements, including screen-sharing, reactions, background noise suppression, and immediate high-definition (HD) video streaming.
A key feature is the ability to transfer active calls between devices, such as moving from a web browser to a mobile phone without ending the conversation. This functionality allows users to start a call on desktop or web and continue it on their phone, providing greater flexibility for professionals managing communications across multiple endpoints. The Calls tab on the web interface now houses call history and favourites, mirroring the experience found in the desktop application.
Group call hosts can now utilise a "waiting room" feature to manage participant entry via call links. By enabling the "Require approval to join" option when creating a call link, hosts can approve or reject participants joining the meeting. This addition is particularly relevant for users hosting work calls on WhatsApp, offering a layer of control over who enters the conversation.
Video quality has also been improved, with calls now streaming in high definition from the first few seconds of the connection, rather than switching to HD after a delay. Additionally, background noise suppression is now active to filter out ambient noise in loud environments, ensuring clearer audio during calls. These technical upgrades aim to enhance the overall user experience on the web platform.
This development aligns with Meta’s broader efforts to unify user identity across platforms. The company recently opened reservations for usernames, a feature intended to eventually support cross-platform calling once the feature goes live. While the full integration via usernames is not yet active, the expansion of calling features to the web app marks a step toward a more cohesive ecosystem. The rollout status of these new features across all user bases remains unspecified.
