(Image source from: Msn.com)

WhatsApp is said to be bringing voice and video calling options to its Web version. This long-awaited function is now accessible to some beta testers, and it may become available to a larger group soon. The update is said to include calls that are encrypted from end to end as well as a feature for sharing screens on WhatsApp Web. These functions have already been present on the desktop apps for Windows and Mac. Until now, WhatsApp only allowed users on the Web to send messages and share files, while voice and video calls were available only through desktop versions. According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has begun to launch voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web. This feature has been in development for about a year and is currently only available for one-on-one conversations. Users can make calls directly from their browser without needing to download the desktop application.

The calling option is reportedly available to some users who are part of the WhatsApp Web beta program, and it is likely to expand to more users shortly. The article includes a preview of how this feature works, showing that users can initiate a call by opening a chat and clicking the call icon at the top right. Calls on WhatsApp Web are reportedly secure with end-to-end encryption, similar to those on Android, iOS, and desktop applications. These calls use the Signal protocol, which WhatsApp has been utilizing for messages, calls, and status updates since 2016. Furthermore, WhatsApp Web calls are said to allow screen sharing, enabling users to show their screens in real time during video calls. Currently, WhatsApp Web users are limited to basic tasks like texting and file sharing, while voice and video calls are still exclusive to desktop applications. This new calling feature on WhatsApp Web is anticipated to be useful for Linux users and those who like to use WhatsApp in a browser instead of a dedicated app.

Meta seems to be preparing to introduce various new features to its messaging app. It is reportedly developing a Close Friends feature for Status updates. The company is also planning to launch a premium subscription that will offer extra customization and productivity tools.