WhatsApp is now rolling out voice and video calling capabilities on its web platform, starting with beta users. The feature, which has been in development for approximately a year, brings one-on-one calling to browser-based WhatsApp without requiring the desktop application.
Beta Rollout Begins for Individual Calls
Meta has begun enabling voice and video calling for WhatsApp Web users enrolled in the platform’s beta program. While group call functionality remains under development, beta testers can now initiate both voice and video calls in one-on-one conversations directly from their browsers.
The implementation reportedly matches the functionality available in WhatsApp’s official desktop applications. Users can start a call by opening a chat and clicking the call button, with no additional software installation required.
Security and Features
According to reports, WhatsApp Web calls maintain the same end-to-end encryption standard used across Apple’s iOS platform and other WhatsApp clients, utilizing Signal’s protocol. Video calls include screen sharing capabilities, allowing users to share their screen during conversations.
The feature has been refined over the past year to ensure it delivers a comparable experience to the native desktop apps while operating entirely within a web browser environment.
Wider Availability Expected
While the initial deployment appears limited to beta program participants, Meta reportedly plans to expand availability to all WhatsApp Web users over the coming weeks. The phased rollout follows Apple’s typical approach to feature launches, allowing for testing and refinement before general availability.
Users interested in accessing the feature early can join the WhatsApp Web beta program by navigating to Settings, then Help and Feedback, and toggling the “Join the Beta” switch. Enrollment does not guarantee immediate access to new features but typically provides earlier access as capabilities roll out.
Group Calling Still in Development
Group voice and video calling for WhatsApp Web remains in development with no confirmed release timeline. When the feature does launch, it is expected to support up to 32 participants, along with call links and scheduled call functionality. This would bring WhatsApp Web’s capabilities in line with the desktop and mobile applications.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to install software to use WhatsApp Web calling?
A: No. The calling feature works directly in your web browser without requiring the desktop application.
Q: Are WhatsApp Web calls encrypted?
A: Yes. Calls reportedly use the same end-to-end encryption protocol as other WhatsApp platforms, maintaining security standards consistent with iOS and Android implementations.
Q: When will group calling be available on WhatsApp Web?
A: Meta has not announced a specific timeline for group calling support on WhatsApp Web. The feature remains under development.
Q: How do I access the beta program?
A: Open WhatsApp Web, go to Settings, then Help and Feedback, and enable the “Join the Beta” option. Access to new features may not be immediate upon enrollment.
MacReview Verdict
WhatsApp Web’s addition of voice and video calling represents a meaningful step toward feature parity across Meta’s messaging platforms. For Mac users who prefer working in browsers rather than installing standalone applications, this development removes a significant limitation that previously required the desktop app.
The phased rollout strategy, starting with beta users and one-on-one calls before expanding to groups, aligns with Apple’s cautious approach to feature deployment. This allows Meta to address potential issues before broader availability while maintaining the platform’s security standards.
The absence of a timeline for group calling may frustrate some users, particularly those who rely on WhatsApp for team communication or family calls. However, the foundation being laid with individual calls suggests group functionality will follow once Meta ensures the web-based infrastructure can handle the increased complexity of multi-participant sessions.
For Mac users integrated into the Apple ecosystem, WhatsApp Web calling offers a convenient alternative to switching between devices or applications, though it notably lacks the tight integration with Apple’s Continuity features that FaceTime provides. The implementation appears solid for its initial release, with encryption and screen sharing addressing core use cases.
