In a move that could significantly enhance the user experience for millions, WhatsApp, the world’s most widely used instant messaging platform, is preparing to roll out voice and video calling capabilities on its web version. The upcoming features, already in beta testing, are expected to bridge a longstanding gap between the mobile and web experiences of the platform.
According to reliable tech source WhatsApp Beta Info, the company has begun offering voice and video calling functionality in the beta version of WhatsApp Web. While the official release date for the global rollout is yet to be confirmed, the development marks a key milestone in the evolution of WhatsApp’s web services.
A Game-Changing Update for Web Users
Until now, voice and video calling on WhatsApp have been largely limited to the mobile app and desktop app. While WhatsApp did introduce calling in its desktop application for Windows and macOS in 2021, this feature was unavailable in the web-based version accessed through browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
With this upcoming update, users will no longer need to rely on the dedicated desktop app or their smartphones to make calls. Instead, they will be able to initiate one-on-one or group voice and video calls directly through their browser, making communication more seamless—especially for users who primarily work on laptops or desktops.
What We Know So Far About the Feature
The information revealed by WhatsApp Beta Info indicates that the calling buttons for voice and video will be integrated into the chat window of WhatsApp Web. Similar to the mobile interface, users will see a phone icon and a video camera icon on the top right of the conversation screen. A click on these will initiate a voice or video call, respectively.
Moreover, reports suggest that during an active call, WhatsApp Web will display a floating call window, which users can move around the screen. This will allow users to multitask without losing access to the call controls, mirroring the functionality already present in WhatsApp’s mobile version.
No More Need for WhatsApp Desktop App
One of the major implications of this update is that Windows and macOS users will no longer need the WhatsApp Desktop application to make calls from their computers. By enabling voice and video calls within the web interface, WhatsApp is simplifying its ecosystem and offering greater flexibility to users.
This change will be especially appreciated by professionals who prefer using browser-based platforms and want to avoid downloading additional software on their systems due to privacy or performance concerns. It also allows users to access full communication features even when using a shared or public computer, where installing the desktop app may not be feasible.
Why Is WhatsApp Making This Move Now?
The decision to introduce voice and video calling in WhatsApp Web seems aligned with broader digital communication trends. With the increasing reliance on remote work, hybrid learning, and virtual meetings, platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet have become household names.
By rolling out browser-based calling, WhatsApp is expanding its capabilities beyond basic messaging, positioning itself as a more comprehensive communication tool that can compete with other major players in the video conferencing space—particularly in the personal and informal communication segments.
Moreover, the company appears to be responding to years of user requests. The lack of calling features in the web version has long been seen as a limitation, especially when users are already logged into WhatsApp Web but are forced to pick up their phone to take or make a call.
Security and End-to-End Encryption
One major concern that always arises when expanding communication tools across platforms is security. WhatsApp has reassured its user base that, like its mobile and desktop apps, the new web-based calling feature will also be end-to-end encrypted.
End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and the receiver can hear or see the conversation, and not even WhatsApp itself has access to this data. This level of security has been a cornerstone of WhatsApp’s brand, especially as privacy becomes a growing concern for users worldwide.
Compatibility and System Requirements
Although WhatsApp is preparing to make these new features widely available, certain minimum system requirements may still apply. As with previous updates, the performance of voice and video calls will depend on:
- A stable internet connection
- Use of an up-to-date browser (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari)
- A computer with a microphone and camera for video calls
- The latest version of WhatsApp Web and smartphone WhatsApp app
Additionally, users may need to grant browser permissions to allow microphone and camera access when using the calling features.
WhatsApp’s Long-Term Strategy and Innovation Roadmap
This development is part of a broader strategy by Meta (formerly Facebook)—WhatsApp’s parent company—to enhance cross-platform integration and feature parity across mobile, desktop, and web versions of its apps.
Over the past few years, WhatsApp has introduced a series of important updates, including:
- Multi-device support, allowing users to use WhatsApp on multiple devices without keeping the phone connected.
- Screen sharing during video calls, another recent feature that boosts the app’s utility in professional and personal scenarios.
- Chat lock, disappearing messages, and improved file sharing, which add layers of privacy and functionality.
By expanding its web capabilities, WhatsApp is clearly focusing on flexibility, convenience, and user empowerment across devices and platforms.
How Will This Impact Users Globally?
With over 2.7 billion active users globally, WhatsApp is the primary communication tool for a significant portion of the world’s population. From businesses to educational institutions and personal users, WhatsApp’s updates affect millions of daily interactions.
The introduction of web-based calling will be particularly beneficial in:
- Remote work environments, where users switch between multiple devices and prefer browser-based tools.
- Developing countries, where access to powerful smartphones is limited but internet cafés and shared PCs are common.
- Educational setups, where teachers and students rely on browser-based communication tools for virtual classrooms.
This enhancement is expected to boost productivity, reduce dependence on mobile phones, and offer more inclusive access to digital communication.
When Will It Be Available to Everyone?
As of now, WhatsApp has not confirmed a final release date for the public rollout of web-based voice and video calling. The features are currently in the beta testing phase, and selected users are providing feedback to help iron out bugs and improve stability.
Typically, WhatsApp rolls out new features to all users in phased releases. If testing goes smoothly, we can expect a broader launch in the coming months, possibly by mid to late 2025.
Conclusion: A Leap Toward a Unified WhatsApp Experience
WhatsApp’s decision to introduce voice and video calling on its web platform marks a significant leap toward a unified, cross-platform experience. As the lines between desktop, mobile, and web platforms continue to blur, users increasingly expect seamless functionality across all devices.
This update not only reflects WhatsApp’s responsiveness to user demands, but also highlights its commitment to remaining competitive in a rapidly evolving communication landscape.
For users worldwide, especially those working or studying from home, this means one less app to install, one less device to reach for—and a lot more convenience at their fingertips.
