WhatsApp Now Lets You Join Group Calls Even After They've Started
WhatsApp has introduced a new call feature to its platform that allows you to jump into an end-to-end encrypted group call even after it has started.
Previously it was only possible to join a group call in WhatsApp when the call was first made and the phone was ringing, which meant if you missed the initial notification and the group call had started, you were effectively locked out of joining.
Joinable calls changes all that. Now, if someone in the group misses the call when the phone rings, they can still join whenever they like. You can also drop-off and re-join the call so long as it's still ongoing.
WhatsApp says the new feature serves to "reduce the burden of answering a group call as it starts, and brings the spontaneity and ease of in-person conversations to group calling on WhatsApp."
In addition to joinable calls, WhatsApp has got a new call info screen so you can see who is already on the call, and who has been invited but not yet joined. There's also a new "Ignore" option in the calls tab if you want to join a call later.
Joinable calls is rolling out now globally. Note that only eight participants can be active on a WhatsApp call at one time.
Popular Stories
Some older iPhone models will need a software update to keep running WhatsApp from the end of November 2026, after Meta confirmed it is raising the app's minimum system requirements.
From November 30, WhatsApp will require iOS 15.5 or later, up from the current requirement of iOS 15.1.
The models affected are the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE (1st generation), iPhone 7, and iPhone...
WhatsApp is working on a way to let users send text messages that can only be viewed once, similar to the feature already available for photos, videos, and voice notes.
According to WABetaInfo, after typing a message in the chat bar, users will be able to select a new "Send as view once" option by long-pressing the Send button. When the message is sent, the recipient will be able to open the ...
Popular messaging app WhatsApp is now allowing users to reserve usernames ahead of plans to launch username-based messaging. Right now, WhatsApp uses a person's phone number as an identifier, but usernames will allow people to interact without having to exchange personal information.
Username reservations are rolling out starting this week, and not all users will have access to the...
