WhatsApp Web to introduce group voice and video calling

WhatsApp is rolling out a major update for the web version of its messaging platform. While WhatsApp Web already includes many of the features available in the mobile app, it has so far lacked support for group voice and video calls.

According to a report by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp Web currently supports voice and video calls only in one-on-one chats. However, a new feature has now appeared in the beta version of WhatsApp Web that enables audio and video calls directly within group chats.

Under this feature, users will be able to participate in group calls with up to 32 people and the calls will be protected by end-to-end encryption. Users will also have access to screen-sharing during group calls.

Once the feature is rolled out to all users, a call button will appear in the group chat window allowing users to start either a voice or video call with a single click.

The report also states that call links can be used for group calls making it easier to invite others to join a conversation. Each call link will have its own unique and secure URL which cannot be duplicated by unauthorized users.

According to the report, if a call link remains unused, it will automatically expire after 30 days. The group calling feature is currently available only to a limited number of beta users but it is expected to be rolled out to all WhatsApp Web users in the near future.