WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion monthly active users. It allows users to send messages, make voice and video calls, and share photos, documents, and other media. While WhatsApp originated as a mobile app, desktop versions are also available for Windows and Mac operating systems.
WhatsApp Desktop App Overview
The official WhatsApp desktop app launched in 2016. It mirrors the features and functionality of the mobile app, providing an easy way for users to access WhatsApp on their computers. The desktop version uses your phone to connect to the WhatsApp service. To use it, you need to:
- Have the WhatsApp mobile app installed on your phone
- Verify your phone number with WhatsApp
- Scan the QR code from the desktop app using your phone’s camera
Once linked, you can seamlessly switch between your phone and computer for messaging and calls. Your chat history and contacts are synced between devices.
Video Calling Capabilities
Since the WhatsApp desktop application connects to your mobile device, it has the same video calling capabilities. If video calling is enabled on your phone’s WhatsApp app, you can also make and receive video calls through WhatsApp for PC.
To make a video call on WhatsApp desktop:
- Open an individual or group chat window
- Click the video call icon in the top right (it looks like a video camera)
- Your phone will ring and the call will be established after the recipient accepts
The video call itself will take place on your computer using your webcam. The call will utilize your phone’s internet connection, either through mobile data or Wi-Fi.
Group Video Calls
In 2018, WhatsApp rolled out support for group video calls of up to 4 participants on both mobile and desktop. To initiate a group video call on desktop:
- Open a WhatsApp group chat
- Click the video call icon
- Select the participants you want to include
- The group call will start after recipients accept the call
The interface is similar to an individual video call, but with all participants visible at the same time in a tiled layout. Desktop apps like WhatsApp make it easy to have group video conversations on a large screen.
Video Call Quality
WhatsApp video calls utilize your phone’s internet connection and bandwidth available. Call quality can vary depending on:
- Internet speed and strength of Wi-Fi/cellular signal
- Processor performance on your computer and phone
- Webcam or camera quality
For optimal video call performance, use the WhatsApp desktop app on a PC or Mac with the latest specs and hardware. This ensures you have enough computing resources to encode and decode the video stream. You’ll also need a stable high-speed internet connection, either through robust Wi-Fi or fast cellular data.
Configuring Video Call Settings
You can configure some settings in WhatsApp to improve the video calling experience on desktop and mobile:
- Internet usage – Set WhatsApp to use less data for calls by lowering video quality.
- Notifications – Disable notifications during calls for fewer distractions.
- Chat wallpaper – Use a neutral wallpaper to provide better contrast.
- Display size – Make sure display scaling is optimized for your monitor.
Testing your video call setup ahead of time can help avoid technical difficulties. Make sure your camera, microphone, and speakers are connected and functional.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Video Calls
Some common issues and fixes for WhatsApp video calls on desktop include:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Can’t start or connect call | Confirm phone has an internet connection via Wi-Fi or mobile data. Restart the WhatsApp app on phone and desktop. |
| Slow or choppy video | Check your internet speeds. Move closer to Wi-Fi router or deactivate other apps using data. |
| Echo during call | Adjust microphone settings. Use headphones to prevent feedback. |
| Can’t find contacts | Ensure your phone and desktop app are synced to your WhatsApp account. |
For persistent issues, get in touch with WhatsApp support. They can help troubleshoot or determine if there are network outages or service problems.
WhatsApp Web Limitations
WhatsApp Web is the web browser version of WhatsApp offered through WhatsApp.com. Unlike the desktop app, WhatsApp Web does not currently support voice or video calls, even though it shares the same functionality otherwise.
Video calls remain a feature limited to the mobile and desktop apps at this time. WhatsApp occasionally adds new features to WhatsApp Web, so video calling may still be added in the future.
Third-Party WhatsApp Desktop Apps
There are unofficial third-party desktop apps for WhatsApp such as WhatsApp Plus, GBWhatsApp, and more. These typically offer additional customization options and enhancements over the official WhatsApp desktop app.
However, unofficial apps violate WhatsApp’s terms of service and use modified or hacked versions of WhatsApp. Some limitations include:
- Bans more likely from using modified WhatsApp clients
- Lack of support for video calls
- Potential security risks from third-party apps
For the best experience, it’s recommended to use the official WhatsApp desktop app which gives full support for video calls.
Conclusion
The WhatsApp desktop application fully supports video calling, just like the mobile app. You can make high-quality individual and group video calls by linking your desktop app to your phone’s WhatsApp account. For optimal performance, use a stable internet connection and latest hardware. While unofficial third-party apps exist, the official desktop client is recommended for full compatability with video calls.