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WhatsApp Web Adds Native Voice and Video Calling

Browser calling introduces device hand-off, host waiting rooms, QuickHD noise suppression, end-to-end encryption.

Overview

  • WhatsApp began a gradual rollout of native one-on-one and group voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, letting users call directly from their browser without downloading a desktop app.
  • Call Transfer lets people move an active call between linked devices without hanging up so a conversation can start on a phone and continue on a computer seamlessly.
  • Waiting Room gives hosts control over participants who join via a call link by holding them in a lobby until the host approves entry, and hosts can remove unwanted attendees before they join.
  • QuickHD starts calls in high-definition within the first few seconds and the new noise suppression feature reduces background sounds so voices come through clearer in busy environments.
  • A Calls tab on the web syncs full call history and favorites across devices, calls remain end-to-end encrypted, and WhatsApp plans to link calling to upcoming username reservations to allow cross-platform calling without sharing phone numbers.