Meta is introducing five new calling features to WhatsApp, with web calling being the primary update. Web calling enables one-on-one and group audio and video calls directly from WhatsApp Web without the need for an app download.
Additional features include Call Transfer, which allows users to transfer active group calls between devices; Waiting Room, which manages group call participants; QuickHD, which provides high-definition video at the beginning of a call; and noise suppression. Meta notes that the rollout will be gradual.
Meta hasn’t provided a timeline for the rollout or specified which regions will get the features first.
Web calling comes to WhatsApp Web, along with call transfers
Web calling allows users to make and receive one-on-one and group audio or video calls directly from WhatsApp Web without downloading the app. Meta identifies this as a core feature.
Meta says web calls include screen sharing, reactions, and a dedicated call tab with full call history and favorites, which is in line with features on other devices. Web calls are end-to-end encrypted, have no time limits and are free. The meta indicates that the feature targets users on shared computers, work laptops that restrict app downloads, or those who prefer browser-based calls.
Call Transfer enables users to transfer 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 the larger screen, or vice versa. This process keeps the call active and participants do not need to reconnect.
Waiting Room, QuickHD, and Noise Suppression
Waiting rooms give call hosts more control over group call access. When “Require approval to join” is enabled for the call link, participants enter the waiting room until the host admits them. This adds an approval step, preventing anyone with the link from directly joining.
QuickHD enhances the video experience by delivering high-definition video within the first few seconds of a call, instead of waiting for the connection to stabilize.
Noise Suppression reduces background noise, ensuring clear sound quality in loud or busy environments. Users can manage this feature at any time through in-call settings.
How to access the new WhatsApp calling features
As features are gradually rolling 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 signed-in device without disconnecting.
- When creating a group call link, enable “Require approval to join” to activate the waiting room feature.
- Manage noise suppression during calls via in-call settings, where it can be toggled at any time.
Meta says the rollout of all five features will be gradual, without specifying any timeframe or which regions or platforms will get them first. Users who don’t 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 simultaneously on every WhatsApp platform.
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