WhatsApp has announced a significant update to its existing video chat service. The new feature, known as call links, should help people create and join calls in just one tap, as Liverpool Echo reports.
To create direct links to both audio and video calls, users can simply tap the ‘call links’ option within the calls tab, which will then create the shareable link. These can be for scheduled or instant calls to share with friends, family or colleagues.
WhatsApp’s current calling method is similar to phone calls, whereas the new feature will bring it more in line with popular video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams. The feature will be rolled out this week and should appear in the app when the latest update is downloaded.
Both Android and iOS users are expected to receive the update. Additionally, Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed the instant messaging service is testing the ability to host secure encrypted video calls for up to 32 people.
The Meta-owned app presently only supports calls of up to eight people, although a similar feature is already available for voice calls. The company began testing this feature in April, with it anticipated to be rolled out as soon as it’s ready to compete with its rivals.
On a Facebook post, Mr Zuckerberg said: "We're rolling out call links on WhatsApp starting this week, so you can share a link to start a call with a single tap. We're also testing secure encrypted video calling for up to 32 people. More coming soon."
