Highlights

• WhatsApp has introduced new audio and video calling features to improve call quality.
• New features to provide better higher resolution for both one-on-one and group calls.
• Users can now select specific participants from group chats to start calls, use new effects during video calls and enjoy easier call initiation from the desktop app.

WhatsApp has announced exciting updates to its audio and video calling features, just in time for the holiday season.

The improvements include enhanced call quality and new tools to make staying connected even easier.

“Calling on WhatsApp continues to grow in popularity around the world. Now, over 2 billion calls are made on WhatsApp every single day. Ahead of the holiday season, we’re introducing new calling features across desktop and mobile, so that connecting with your loved ones is easier than ever,” Meta shared in a blog post.

Here’s everything about the new features as per the WhatsApp announcement –

Pick-call participants from Group Chats

You can now choose specific participants from a group chat to start a call, ensuring you only include the people you want without notifying everyone. Meta calls this “ideal for planning surprise parties or presents.”

Fun New Camera Effects for Video Calls

WhatsApp is adding ten new effects to video calls, making them more enjoyable. You can try out puppy ears, a karaoke microphone, or even an underwater filter to add a playful touch to your conversations.

Improved Calling on Desktop

Starting calls from the WhatsApp desktop app is getting easier. A revamped Calls tab will help users quickly start a call, create a call link, or dial a number.

Higher Quality Video Calls

Whether you’re on desktop or mobile, video calls now come with better reliability and higher resolution for both one-on-one and group calls. Expect a clearer and smoother experience overall.

In a different announcement, Meta recently confirmed that WhatsApp will no longer work on older iPhones like the iPhone 5s, as the app now requires iOS 15.1 or later. Another recent feature rollout includes voice message transcription, which is now available to all users.

FAQs

Q1. What new feature allows you to start calls in group chat on WhatsApp?

Answer. You can now choose specific participants from a group chat to start a call, ensuring you only include the people you want without notifying everyone.

Q2. What new video call features has WhatsApp introduced?

Answer. WhatsApp has added ten new effects for video calls, such as puppy ears, a karaoke microphone, and an underwater filter, making calls more enjoyable.

Q3. What recent change affects older iPhones using WhatsApp?

Answer. WhatsApp will no longer work on older iPhones like the iPhone 5s, as the app now requires iOS 15.1 or later.