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Summary
WhatsApp Web is reportedly in development to receive voice and video calling support, mirroring the functionality already available on its desktop (Windows/Mac) applications since 2021.
The discovery of calling features in a recent WhatsApp Web beta update, similar to Meta’s Messenger web client, suggests that users may soon be able to make individual and group calls directly from their browsers, eliminating the need for a separate desktop app for this purpose.
While the official release timeline remains uncertain, the appearance of this feature in the beta indicates that it is likely to be rolled out in a future update, potentially streamlining the initial setup process for new desktop devices.
The WhatsApp desktop application for Windows PCs and Macs gained audio and video call support back in 2021. Four years later, and it looks like the WhatsApp Web client might (finally) be next in line.
Meta-owned Messenger on the web has had calling support for a while now. Considering its shared tech stack across apps, it was a question of when, not if WhatsApp Web would follow suit.
Soon after rolling out a UI update to make WhatsApp Web look similar to its Android counterpart, the messaging giant is reportedly working on adding calling support for the browser client. As highlighted by WABetaInfo after digging into a recent WhatsApp Web beta update, the functionality, which isn’t currently available on the stable WhatsApp Web client, could function the way it does on the desktop app — complete with support for calling groups and individuals.
The first time you attempt to start a call on WhatsApp Web, you’ll likely have to grant mic and webcam permissions. WhatsApp Web will likely retain the permissions as long as you’re using the same browser and don’t delete cookies and site data. Alternatively, you’ll also be able to grant permissions on a per-visit basis.
More than just messages
Source: WABetaInfo
This significantly reduces the time it takes to hit the ground running on a new desktop device, considering that users no longer need to install a separate desktop application for placing calls.
It is currently unclear when calling via WhatsApp Web might officially land. Regardless, the discovery in the beta version suggests that the wait likely won’t be too long.
The development comes soon after WhatsApp began rolling out a new Advanced Chat Privacy feature, which is designed to prevent other users from being able to export their chats with you.
