WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Meta, is adding new features to keep up with the competition. One of these new features is an upgrade to group calls, which will allow users to schedule calls for their group chats, similar to how Google Meet and Zoom work. This feature was seen in the latest test version of WhatsApp for Android (version 2.23.17.7).
In the upcoming feature, group chats on WhatsApp will let you plan calls for the future and inform all the group members about it. This feature was actually seen in an earlier test version of WhatsApp a few months ago, but now it’s being tested by a smaller group of users, which means it’s getting closer to being officially available.
In this new feature, you’ll find a call button in a group chat that allows you to schedule calls for later times. You can choose the date and time for a conference call and also indicate whether it will be a video or audio call. People who tap “Join call” in the group will receive a notification 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to start.
This feature will make it much simpler to plan calls, and you won’t have to remind group members about it because they’ll automatically get notifications.
It’s important to note that this feature is still being tested and will gradually become available to more users in the next few weeks. There’s no information about when WhatsApp will release it for everyone.