Particle.news

WhatsApp Web Adds Browser Voice and Video Calls

It narrows the gap with mobile apps by letting users make encrypted calls from a browser without installing desktop software.

Overview

  • WhatsApp began a global, staggered rollout of browser-based voice and video calling that was visible to some users in Mexico on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, and may take weeks to reach all accounts.
  • The company says calls on WhatsApp Web remain end-to-end encrypted, carry no extra cost, and have no time limits.
  • WhatsApp Web now shows a Calls tab with call history and favorites and supports in-call tools already on mobile such as screen sharing and real-time reactions.
  • New meeting-focused controls include passing an ongoing call between phone and computer without dropping it, a waiting room that requires host approval for link joiners, selectable noise cancellation, and a reported QuickHD mode that aims for fast high-definition video when the network allows.
  • The change lets people use full calling features on shared or restricted computers and positions WhatsApp Web to better compete with browser-first meeting services, while the phased rollout means users should expect uneven availability in the coming days.