WhatsApp has begun rolling out a long-awaited feature that allows users to make voice and video calls directly through WhatsApp Web via their browser, eliminating the need to install the desktop application.
The new update marks a significant expansion of WhatsApp’s web capabilities, strengthening the platform’s presence on laptops and desktop computers and enhancing its competitiveness in the online communications market.
According to early beta reports, the feature is currently available for one-to-one chats only. Users can open any individual conversation on WhatsApp Web and tap the call icon to initiate either a voice or video call directly from the browser. Group calling is not yet supported in this initial phase.
The development is particularly important for professionals who rely on browser-based workflows during working hours. It also represents a major advancement for Linux users, who do not currently have access to an official WhatsApp desktop application.
Over the past year, WhatsApp has steadily upgraded its web version, aiming to transform it from a companion extension of the mobile app into a fully integrated communications platform. With the addition of browser calling, users can now manage chats and calls within a single window, reducing the need to switch between applications and boosting productivity—especially on portable devices.
From a security perspective, WhatsApp confirmed that browser-based calls will remain protected by end-to-end encryption using the same Signal protocol deployed for in-app messaging and voice communications. This ensures that calls made via WhatsApp Web maintain the same level of privacy as those conducted through the mobile or desktop applications.
WhatsApp Web also supports screen sharing, although this feature is currently available only during video calls. Users must initiate a video session even if their primary purpose is to present documents or demonstrate settings.
Reports indicate that future phases may introduce group calling through the browser for up to 32 participants. Additional features under consideration include the creation of call links and scheduling tools, though these have not yet been officially launched.
The feature is being rolled out gradually to beta users. To check availability, users can open an individual chat on WhatsApp Web and look for the call icons. If the feature does not appear yet, it is expected to become available progressively, as the company has not specified which browsers or operating systems will receive priority in the rollout.
The move signals WhatsApp’s broader strategy to solidify its position in the global messaging and video calling ecosystem, offering greater flexibility and cross-device functionality to its more than two billion users worldwide.
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