Meta has announced a series of new calling features for WhatsApp, including the ability to make and receive voice and video calls directly from WhatsApp Web without installing the desktop app.
The update also introduces call transfers between devices, waiting rooms for group calls, faster HD video, and background noise suppression.
Meta says the features are rolling out gradually and will become available to all users in the coming weeks.
The biggest addition is support for audio and video calling in WhatsApp Web, allowing users to place one-on-one or group calls directly from a browser. Previously, calling on a computer required the dedicated WhatsApp Desktop application. Browser-based calling supports existing features such as screen sharing, emoji reactions, a dedicated Calls tab, call history, and favorites.
Meta says calls made through WhatsApp Web remain protected by end-to-end encryption, with no time limits or additional charges.
Another new capability allows users to transfer an active group call between devices without disconnecting. For example, users can start a call on their phone while traveling and seamlessly move it to WhatsApp Web or the desktop app after arriving home, or switch back to a mobile device when heading out again.
For group calls created through WhatsApp call links, Meta has also added an optional waiting room. When the “Require approval to join” setting is enabled, participants must wait until the call host approves their entry, giving organizers greater control over who joins and when.
The update also improves video quality with QuickHD, which delivers high-definition video within the first few seconds of a call instead of waiting for the connection to stabilize.
Finally, WhatsApp is introducing noise suppression, a feature that reduces background sounds during calls to make voices clearer in noisy environments. Users can enable or disable the option at any time from the in-call settings.
Meta says these new calling features are being rolled out gradually across supported platforms, so some users may receive them before others.
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