WhatsApp is reportedly working on a major upgrade for its web platform by introducing support for group voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web. This new feature allows users to join and start group conversations directly from a browser, without needing the desktop app or switching to their phone.
The update builds on WhatsApp’s earlier rollout of one-to-one calling on the web and is currently being tested with selected beta users. If widely released, it could make WhatsApp Web a much more complete communication tool for both personal and professional use.
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WhatsApp Web Gets Group Calling Support
According to feature tracker WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has started rolling out group calling features on WhatsApp Web for a limited number of beta testers.
Earlier in February, WhatsApp introduced voice and video calls on the web, but those were limited to individual chats only. With this new update, users can now extend that functionality to group conversations as well.
This means users will soon be able to:
- Start group voice calls directly from WhatsApp Web
- Join group video calls without mobile app dependency
- Use calling features directly in the browser
All of this continues to be protected with end-to-end encryption, ensuring secure communication.
How Group Calls Work on WhatsApp Web
With the new beta update, users will see a call icon at the top of group chats on WhatsApp Web. By clicking it, they can choose between:
- Voice call
- Video call
Interestingly, users may also get the option to select specific participants instead of automatically including every member of the group.
This gives more flexibility, especially for large groups where only a few people need to join a call.
Participant Limit and Call Features
The report suggests that WhatsApp Web group calls can support up to 32 participants, matching the same limit available on mobile and desktop apps.
Other expected features include:
- ✔️ Call links for easy invitations
- ✔️ Optional waiting room before joining
- ✔️ Screen sharing during video calls
- ✔️ End-to-end encryption for all calls
Call links are expected to expire after 30 days of inactivity, improving security and reducing unwanted access.
Screen Sharing and Collaboration Features
One of the most useful additions is screen sharing support in video calls on WhatsApp Web. This feature will allow users to:
- Share documents
- Present slides
- Collaborate in meetings directly from a browser
However, screen sharing will only be available in video calls, not in voice-only calls.
This update makes WhatsApp Web more useful for remote work, online classes, and team collaboration.
Limited Rollout for Beta Testers
At the moment, the feature is only available to a small group of WhatsApp Web beta testers. WhatsApp has not confirmed a global release date, but the rollout is expected to expand gradually over the coming weeks.
Users can check availability by opening a group chat and looking for the call button at the top. If it appears, the feature has been enabled for their account.
Why This Update Matters
This update is especially important for users who rely heavily on WhatsApp Web for daily communication.
It could be particularly beneficial for:
- Office workers using browsers for communication
- Students attending online discussions
- Linux users without official desktop app support
Since WhatsApp does not currently offer a dedicated desktop app for Linux, web-based calling could become a key solution for many users.
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Final Thoughts
WhatsApp’s move to bring group voice and video calls to WhatsApp Web shows a clear push toward making the browser version more powerful and independent. With features like participant selection, call links, encryption, and screen sharing, WhatsApp Web is slowly evolving into a full communication platform rather than just a messaging mirror.
If rolled out globally, this could significantly change how users interact on WhatsApp from desktop browsers.