WhatsApp has started rolling out a major update to its calling experience, adding features that make group calls smarter, more interactive, and easier to manage.
The new tools, ranging from scheduled calls to in-call reactions, put the platform in closer competition with conferencing apps like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, while retaining WhatsApp’s signature end-to-end encryption.
The standout feature in this update is the ability to schedule group calls in advance.
To get started:
- Head to the Calls tab in WhatsApp.
- Tap the “+” button and select “Schedule Call.”
- Choose the call type (voice or video), then set the date and time.
- Add participants by selecting individual contacts or entire groups.
- WhatsApp generates a unique call link that can be shared with invitees.
Scheduled calls appear in an Upcoming Calls section within the app and can also be synced to your calendar.
Participants receive automatic notifications before the call begins, reducing the chances of missed meetings or family check-ins.
Interactive Tools During Calls
WhatsApp is also introducing features that make conversations more structured and engaging:
- Raise Hand: Lets participants signal when they want to speak without interrupting.
- Emoji Reactions: Users can react to what’s being said with quick emojis, adding a layer of non-verbal communication.
- In-Call Messaging: Send text updates or links within the call interface.
- Screen Sharing: Share your mobile screen to walk through slides, documents, or apps in real time.
These features are especially useful for group discussions, online classes, and collaborative work sessions.
Beyond new tools, WhatsApp has improved the technical backbone of its calling service. Video and voice calls now benefit from the following improvements:
- Improved HD quality when bandwidth supports it.
- Smarter network adjustments to reduce freezing and dropouts.
- More reliable performance during large group calls.
With over two billion users, WhatsApp is one of the world’s most widely used communication platforms.
These upgrades make it a serious option for remote collaboration and group meetings. Families, businesses, and communities that already rely on WhatsApp for daily communication now have better tools to stay connected without needing to switch to separate video conferencing apps.
And unlike many alternatives, all of these calls remain protected by end-to-end encryption, ensuring privacy by default.
Getting Started
The new features are being rolled out globally in phases. To try them:
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Open the Calls tab to find the scheduling and interactive call options.
WhatsApp confirms the rollout will expand to all users over the coming weeks.
