WhatsApp has announced a major update for WhatsApp Web, bringing support for one-on-one and group audio and video calls directly through a web browser. Users no longer need to install the desktop application to make or receive calls from their computers.

The company has also introduced several new calling features, including Call Transfer, Waiting Room, QuickHD, and Noise Suppression, with the rollout beginning globally.

Users can now make individual and group voice or video calls directly from WhatsApp Web. According to WhatsApp, all calls remain end-to-end encrypted, have no time limits, and are available at no additional cost.

WhatsApp Web also now includes a dedicated Calls tab, giving users quick access to their recent call history and favourite contacts.

A new Call Transfer feature allows users to move an ongoing group call between devices without disconnecting.

For example, users can begin a call on their smartphone while travelling and seamlessly transfer it to WhatsApp Web or the desktop app after reaching home. The same call can later be moved back to the mobile device whenever needed.

WhatsApp is also introducing a Waiting Room feature for group calls created using call links.

When generating a call link, hosts can enable the “Require approval to join” option. Anyone opening the link will enter a virtual waiting room and must be approved by the host before joining the call.

The update also introduces QuickHD, which enables HD video quality within the first few seconds of a video call instead of gradually increasing the resolution after the connection is established.

Another addition is Noise Suppression, which reduces background sounds during calls to make voices clearer in noisy environments.

With this update, WhatsApp Web users also gain access to features that were previously available on the mobile and desktop apps, including:

• Screen sharing during video calls
• Emoji reactions during calls
• Dedicated Calls tab with recent calls and favourites

WhatsApp says these new calling features are rolling out gradually and will become available to all users over the coming weeks.

• Audio & Video Calls: One-on-one and group voice/video calling directly on WhatsApp Web
• Call Transfer: Move ongoing group calls between mobile, desktop, and web without disconnecting
• Waiting Room: Host approval required before participants join via call links
• QuickHD: HD video quality available within the first few seconds of a video call
• Noise Suppression: Reduces background noise for clearer voice calls
• Additional Features: Screen sharing, emoji reactions, dedicated Calls tab
• Security: End-to-end encrypted voice and video calls
• Availability: Rolling out gradually to WhatsApp Web users worldwide