Yes, WhatsApp can be used to call mobile numbers, even if the number is not registered on WhatsApp. WhatsApp provides free voice calls for all users as long as both parties have an internet connection.
WhatsApp voice calling uses your phone’s internet connection rather than your cellular plan’s voice minutes. This allows you to make domestic and international calls for free. The call quality is very good on both Android smartphones and iPhones.
Some key things to know about WhatsApp calling:
- You can call any mobile number or landline internationally. You don’t need to have the contact saved in your phonebook.
- Both the caller and recipient need to have WhatsApp installed and an active internet connection.
- The call will not go through if the recipient does not have an internet connection.
- The call quality depends on both users’ internet speeds and connections.
- WhatsApp calls are encrypted end-to-end for privacy.
Steps to Call a Mobile Number on WhatsApp
Follow these simple steps to call a mobile number that’s not in your contacts through WhatsApp:
- Open the WhatsApp app on your phone.
- Tap on the Calls tab at the bottom.
- Tap on the phone icon in the top right to start a new call.
- Enter the full mobile number you want to call in the dial pad.
- Tap the green call button to place the call.
As long as the number you entered has an active WhatsApp account, the call will connect. The recipient will see your number and profile photo when the call comes in.
International WhatsApp Calling
One of the best features of WhatsApp calling is the ability to make free international calls to any number worldwide. As long as both you and the recipient have WhatsApp accounts and internet connections, calls will go through regardless of physical location.
To make an international WhatsApp call:
- Enter the country code before the full number. For example, to call a number in London, enter +44 followed by the local number.
- Make sure you have a stable WiFi or mobile data connection for international calls.
- Note that call quality can vary depending on the strength of the recipient’s internet connection in their country.
With over 2 billion users worldwide, chances are high that an international contact will have WhatsApp installed. This allows you to avoid costly long distance charges completely.
Group Calls on WhatsApp
In addition to one-on-one calls, WhatsApp also lets you make group voice calls with up to 8 participants at once. Here’s how to make a group call:
- Open an existing WhatsApp group chat or create a new group.
- Tap on the phone icon at the top of the chat.
- Select the participants you want to include in the call.
- Tap on the green call button to connect everyone.
Group calls are useful for business meetings, family catch-ups, or coordinating with groups of friends. Participants can be added even after the call begins. The same requirement of an internet connection applies to all members of the group voice call.
Video Calls on WhatsApp
In addition to voice calls, WhatsApp also provides free video calling between users:
- Video calls use your phone’s front camera so both parties can see each other.
- High quality video up to 720p HD is supported on most new smartphones.
- The steps are the same as voice calling – just tap the video call icon instead.
- End-to-end encryption applies to WhatsApp video calls as well.
Video calls make it easy to have face-to-face conversations with family or friends abroad. The ability to see each other adds more value to the interaction.
Call Quality and Reliability
WhatsApp uses advanced audio compression algorithms to optimize call quality and reliability even in weak network conditions. Some tips to get the best experience:
- Make sure you’re on a 3G, 4G, WiFi or broadband connection for best results.
- Limit bandwidth heavy activities during calls to prioritize WhatsApp’s data usage.
- Use headphones with a microphone for added clarity in noisy environments.
- Switch from video to voice calling if the video quality is poor due to connectivity issues.
Special WhatsApp Call Features
Here are some useful things you can do during WhatsApp calls:
- Multitasking – You can minimize the call and use other apps while the call is ongoing in the background.
- Conference calls – Add multiple contacts to the call and merge conversations together.
- Record calls – The recording is saved to your phone storage which can be useful for meetings.
- Block contacts – You can block numbers to avoid unwanted incoming calls and messages.
Overall, WhatsApp calling is a very convenient feature to stay in touch with your contacts for free. Both voice and video calls are integrated seamlessly within the app.
Limitations of WhatsApp Calling
While WhatsApp calling is great, there are some limitations to be aware of:
- Both parties need to have WhatsApp installed and use the same phone number as their account.
- Without an internet connection, calls cannot be placed or received.
- There is no built-in call recording function – third party apps are required.
- Maximum participants in a group call is only 8 people.
- Call quality depends on each individual’s internet speeds and latency.
WhatsApp calling is designed for convenience and cost saving rather than as a full business communication solution. For large conference calls and advanced call management features, a VoIP business phone system would be more capable.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Calling Issues
If you face issues making or receiving WhatsApp calls, here are some troubleshooting tips:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Call doesn’t connect | Check internet connectivity of both parties. Move to an area with better signal strength. |
| Echo during calls | Lower volume, use headphones, or mute when not speaking. |
| Poor video quality | Use WiFi instead of mobile data. Disable other bandwidth heavy apps. |
| Dropped calls | Restart your phone. Move closer to WiFi router. Check for any OS or WhatsApp updates. |
Following these tips should help minimize technical issues when using WhatsApp calling and ensure good voice and video quality.
Conclusion
WhatsApp calling is an incredibly useful communication channel that enables free voice and video calls globally. It works on both Android and iOS devices and uses your existing internet connection. While traditional cellular networks are limited by geography and pricing, WhatsApp helps break down those barriers.
Both one-on-one and group calls can be placed to contacts regardless of whether they are saved in your phonebook or not. Excellent call quality and reliability makes WhatsApp a go-to app for cost-effective communication worldwide.