WhatsApp has reignited testing of video calling on its web platform, signaling a major leap beyond chat and voice. This move comes as the service aims to match rivals like Google Meet and Zoom in browser-based video conferencing.

The fresh beta runs smoothly on popular browsers such as Chrome, Safari, and Firefox. By finally enabling web users to place video calls, WhatsApp is unifying its multi-device experience, making cross-platform communications seamless and accessible.

Will video calling on WhatsApp Web change how you connect online? Share your thoughts!

Previously capped at 32 members on mobile, WhatsApp's web version currently supports up to 16 participants during video calls. This concession likely helps to streamline the user experience and speed up rollout.

Experts praise WhatsApp's approach to balancing performance and scalability. Limiting call size reduces bandwidth strain and ensures smoother video and audio quality even on less powerful devices or slower connections.

• Video call capacity: up to 16 participants
• Supported across major browsers: Chrome, Safari, Firefox

Do you find 16 participants sufficient for your video calls? Would you prefer more?

The web beta introduces a modernized call button, positioned conveniently next to the search and menu icons. Beyond just calling, WhatsApp plans integration of features like scheduled calls and sharable call links.

Scheduling lets users create events with predefined times, while call links can be shared for easy meeting access without individual invites — a feature designed to simplify group coordination.

• Call scheduling and link generation
• Enhanced UI with improved access controls

How useful would scheduling calls on WhatsApp Web be for your daily routine?

With the integration of video calling on web, WhatsApp is set to become a formidable alternative to Google Meet and Zoom especially for casual and semi-professional users who already rely on WhatsApp for messaging.

Industry analysts suggest this enhances WhatsApp’s conferencing capability while leveraging its massive existing user base, potentially shifting more traffic from standalone conferencing platforms.

• Multi-device syncing of calls and schedules
• Tight integration with WhatsApp messages and groups

Could WhatsApp Web replace your current video conferencing tool? Why or why not?

• Browser compatibility: Chrome, Safari, Firefox
• Video calls supporting up to 16 participants
• Scheduled calls with sharable links
• New call button interface for easy access
• Sync across devices for seamless meeting management

WhatsApp’s video calling on web remains in beta but shows promising signs. As it approaches wider release, the platform could redefine daily virtual meetings, blending simplicity with robust features.

Future updates may expand participant limits and add AI-driven enhancements, following trends seen in Zoom calling AI updates and Google Meet's AI-powered video tech.

Tech enthusiasts and professionals alike should watch this space to assess how WhatsApp evolves into a premier conferencing tool compatible with their workflows and social habits.

What features would you prioritize for WhatsApp Web video calls in the next updates?

• WhatsApp Web is testing video calls supporting 16 participants.
• Scheduled calls and sharable links simplify meeting coordination.
• The update positions WhatsApp as a strong competitor to Zoom and Google Meet.
• Enhanced browser support enables wide accessibility across devices.
• Upcoming improvements could expand features, impacting how users video chat online.

• Image showing WhatsApp Web’s new video calling interface during beta testing with 16 participants
• Source: WaBetaInfo