No desktop app needed? WhatsApp Web beta introduces 'call links', screen sharing and group calls

WhatsApp is rolling out support for group voice and video calls on its web platform for a limited set of beta testers. The feature lets users place calls directly from a browser rather than relying on the desktop app or a smartphone.

Until now, WhatsApp Web supported only individual voice and video calls, while group calling was not available on the browser version.

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WhatsApp Web catches up with its siblings

The new option appears to be designed to make WhatsApp Web much closer to the company’s mobile and desktop experience.

Users will see a call button at the top of a group chat, where they can choose between a voice call and a video call. The update also gives users more control over who joins, allowing them to select specific participants instead of automatically including everyone in the group.

A gathering of thirty-two, no less

The feature set mirrors WhatsApp’s broader calling tools. Group voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web are expected to support up to 32 participants, matching the limit already available on the app’s mobile and desktop versions.

The web calls are also end-to-end encrypted, using the Signal protocol, which means the contents of the call remain accessible only to participants and not to WhatsApp or its parent company Meta.

More than a simple ring

Beyond basic calling, WhatsApp Web is expected to add call links, waiting rooms, and screen sharing for video calls.

Call links would allow users to invite others into a group call, while waiting rooms would offer more control over who enters. Screen sharing, meanwhile, would let users present documents, slides, or other material during video calls but not during voice-only sessions.

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Not quite for everyone just yet

The feature is presently limited to selected beta testers. WhatsApp has not announced a public launch date.

The rollout is expected to expand over the coming weeks. A wider release could follow if testing proceeds smoothly. The browser-based approach could be especially useful for Linux users, who do not have a dedicated WhatsApp desktop app.

FAQs

Q1: Can WhatsApp Web support group voice and video calls now?

Ans: WhatsApp is testing group voice and video calling on WhatsApp Web for select beta users, with a wider rollout expected later.

Q2: How many people can join a WhatsApp Web group call?

Ans: According to reports, WhatsApp Web group calls could support up to 32 participants, matching the limit on mobile and desktop apps.