Highlights

• WhatsApp beta introduces a mute option in the notification panel that lets users accept voice calls while staying muted.
• The new Beta feature now allows users to disable their camera before answering video calls.
• WhatsApp also adds real-time emoji reactions for video calls, making group interactions more engaging.

WhatsApp is working on some handy new features for voice and video calls on Android. According to trusted WhatsApp Beta source WABetaInfo, these updates were spotted in the beta version 2.25.10.16 of the app and are currently available to a limited number of beta testers. Here’s what we know so far.

WhatsApp Testing New Features

WABetaInfo recently reported with screenshots details of the three new features that aim to improve the WhatsApp calling experience.

📝 WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.10.16: what’s new?

WhatsApp is rolling out an improved user experience for voice and video calls, and it’s available to some beta testers!
Some users can get this feature by installing certain previous updates.https://t.co/TrDwvyqMHD pic.twitter.com/75A5ozFr77

— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) April 4, 2025

Caption – WhatsApp is working on an update to improve user experience for voice and video calls. (Screenshot credit – @WABetaInfo on X)

The first one is a mute button that shows up in the notification panel during an incoming voice call. It lets you accept the call while keeping your microphone muted. This can be super helpful if you’re in a meeting, in a noisy place, or just need a moment before speaking. You can quietly join the call without the other person hearing anything on your end right away.

The second feature brings more privacy control to video calls. Previously, when you got a video call, you had to answer it before turning your camera off, which is not ideal if the call was unexpected or from someone you don’t know.

With this new update, you can now disable your camera before picking up the call. This way, you can decide if and when you want to appear on screen. It’s a nice privacy boost, especially when you’re caught off guard.

The third feature is all about making calls more fun. WhatsApp is adding emoji reactions during video calls, allowing you to express yourself without having to interrupt the conversation. These real-time reactions are especially useful in group calls, where you might just want to show a quick thumbs-up or laugh without speaking.

Right now, these features are only available to some beta users on Android, but WhatsApp plans to roll them out to more users in the coming weeks.

FAQs

Q1. What new feature is being introduced for incoming voice calls in WhatsApp?

Answer. WhatsApp beta introduces a mute button in the notification panel, allowing users to accept voice calls while keeping their microphone muted.

Q2. What privacy enhancement is being added for video calls?

Answer. Users can now disable their camera before answering video calls, offering better privacy control, especially for unexpected or unfamiliar calls.

Q3. How is WhatsApp making video calls more interactive?

Answer. WhatsApp is adding real-time emoji reactions during video calls, allowing users to express themselves without interrupting the conversation, particularly in group calls.

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