Watch out Zoom, WhatsApp for desktop could soon support video conferencing
End-to-end encrypted VoIP calls and video calls are now being tested in WhatsApp
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WhatsAppusers may be soon be able to use their favorite messaging app forvideo conferencingas the Facebook-owned company is currently testing a new voice and video calling feature in its Mac desktop client.
Themessaging servicefirst introduced voice and video as well as group video chats to its mobile app back in 2018 and now it appears that this same functionality could launch on desktop via an update in the coming weeks.
According to the team over atWABetaInfo, which specializes in discovering upcoming WhatsApp features by digging into the app’s source code, some users are currently beta-testing an update to the service’s desktop client for macOS that allows them to make end-to-end encryptedVoIPcalls and video calls.
Desktop video calls
In order to get started making either audio calls or video calls in WhatsApp, users will need to open the desktop app and navigate to the call buttons which now appear in the header at the top right of the app. If you’ve been randomly selected to participate in the beta, you’ll know by the fact that both the voice and video call buttons have the world beta written on top of them.
The other user you’re trying to call will be notified in the desktop version of the app and they’ll have the option to accept, decline or ignore the call.
Once a call is in progress, a small window will appear with quick controls to hang up the call, mute the call and to enable or disable video.
We’ll likely hear more about this new feature onceWhatsAppofficially announces it in the coming weeks.
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After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.
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