WhatsApp Web Finally Unlocks Native Calling: Everything You Need to Know

For over a decade, WhatsApp Web has been the “lite” version of the messaging experience—excellent for typing long messages but notoriously limited when it came to media. That era officially ended on February 10, 2026. WhatsApp has begun a phased rollout of native voice and video calling support for its web application, bringing browser users to parity with their desktop-app counterparts.

Add businessleague.in as a Preferred Source

Also Read |Tamil Nadu Voter List Purge: 97 Lakh Names Deleted in SIR Phase 1

Breaking the Browser Barrier: Why This Update Matters

Since its debut in 2015, the web client has lacked the ability to handle audio and video streams. Users who spent their workdays on laptops were forced to either pick up their phones or download the bulky standalone desktop application.

By integrating these features directly into the browser, WhatsApp is shifting toward a “full-platform” model. This is particularly beneficial for those on shared computers or work machines where installing third-party software is restricted.

How It Works: Navigating the New Web Call Interface

If you are part of the WhatsApp Web Beta program, you will notice two new icons at the top-right corner of individual chat windows:

1. Phone Icon: For voice-only calls.

2. Video Camera Icon: For high-definition video calls.

To initiate a call:

• Open a chat with any contact.

• Click either icon.

• A pop-up window (separate from your browser tab) will appear, allowing you to manage the call, mute your mic, or toggle your camera.

Also Read |Tamil Nadu Voter List Purge: 97 Lakh Names Deleted in SIR Phase 1

Note: Currently, the feature is limited to one-on-one calls. Group calling (supporting up to 32 participants) is reportedly in final internal testing and is expected to follow by late March 2026.

Privacy First: Encryption and Screen Sharing Details

Despite moving into the browser environment, WhatsApp has not compromised on security.

• End-to-End Encryption: All web-based calls utilize the Signal Protocol, ensuring that no one—including Meta—can intercept your audio or video data.

• Screen Sharing: Borrowing from its Windows and Mac apps, the web version now supports real-time screen sharing. This makes it a viable, lightweight alternative to Zoom or Microsoft Teams for quick presentations or remote tech support.

The Linux Win: A Game-Changer for Alternative OS Users

The biggest winners of this update are Linux users. For years, Linux has been the only major operating system without an official WhatsApp desktop client. These users were historically excluded from the calling ecosystem unless they used unofficial (and often unsecure) wrappers. Now, as long as you have a modern browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, you have full access to the WhatsApp calling suite on Linux.

Also Read |Tamil Nadu Voter List Purge: 97 Lakh Names Deleted in SIR Phase 1

[WHATSAPP CALLING COMPATIBILITY – FEB 2026]

Next Steps

To see if you have the feature, you should check for the call icons in your browser right now. If they aren’t there, you can try joining the beta by going to Settings > Help > Join the Beta. Furthermore, if you plan to use this for work, ensure your browser has permission to access your microphone and camera in your system’s privacy settings.

Also Read |Tamil Nadu Voter List Purge: 97 Lakh Names Deleted in SIR Phase 1

End…

Add businessleague.in as a Preferred Source