WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging platforms in the world, with over 2 billion users. One of the key features of WhatsApp is the ability to make voice and video calls to other users. While WhatsApp calls were originally limited to one-on-one conversations, the platform now allows group calling with up to 8 participants.
WhatsApp Desktop App
In addition to the mobile app, WhatsApp also offers a desktop application that can be used on Windows and Mac computers. The WhatsApp desktop app provides many of the same features as the mobile app, such as messaging, voice notes, and media sharing.
However, there are some limitations to the desktop app. Notably, it does not include the ability to make voice and video calls. The desktop application relies on the user’s phone to send and receive WhatsApp calls and messages. The desktop app simply mirrors conversations and synchronizes messaging across devices.
Can You Use WhatsApp Desktop for Group Calls?
Since the WhatsApp desktop application relies on a connection to the user’s mobile device, it does not currently support any calling functionality, including group calling. While you can join an ongoing group call using WhatsApp Desktop, you cannot initiate or start a new group call from the desktop app.
If you try to start a group call from WhatsApp Desktop, you will see an error message that states “Calls aren’t supported on WhatsApp for Mac yet.” The same limitation applies to individual voice and video calls as well.
Workarounds to Make Group Calls from Desktop
While you can’t directly start a group call from WhatsApp Desktop, there are some workarounds you can use to achieve a similar effect:
- Use WhatsApp Web – This browser-based version of WhatsApp mirrors your phone’s app and does allow you to initiate a group call.
- Set up a group call on your phone first, then join it from desktop – This allows you to participate in an ongoing group call, even if you can’t start it from desktop.
- Use a third-party desktop app like WhatsApp Desktop – These unofficial apps sometimes allow group calling even if official WhatsApp doesn’t.
WhatsApp’s Calling Features
Here is an overview of the calling capabilities currently available on WhatsApp:
| Calling Feature | WhatsApp Mobile | WhatsApp Desktop | WhatsApp Web |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-to-one calls | Yes | No | Yes |
| Group voice calls | Yes (up to 8 participants) | No | Yes (up to 8 participants) |
| Group video calls | Yes (up to 8 participants) | No | Yes (up to 8 participants) |
As this table illustrates, while desktop allows you to join group calls, initiating a new group call is only possible from the WhatsApp mobile and web apps currently.
The Future of WhatsApp Desktop Calling
WhatsApp has not officially commented on their roadmap for expanding call capabilities to the desktop app. However, since the desktop app currently relies on a connection to the user’s phone, major changes would likely have to be made to enable independent calling functions.
Some analysts speculate that WhatsApp could implement peer-to-peer calling technology in desktop in the future, which would enable direct calling without needing to route calls through the user’s phone. This is similar to how other VoIP desktop apps like Skype or Zoom function.
In the meantime, users looking to leverage WhatsApp’s group calling functions from desktop can use WhatsApp Web or set up mobile-initiated group calls that can be joined from the desktop app. While not ideal, these provide temporary workarounds until native desktop calling is potentially added by WhatsApp.
Tips for Group Calling on WhatsApp
Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth group calling experience on WhatsApp when using the mobile or web app:
- Check that everyone in your group has a stable internet connection – This prevents lag, dropped calls, and poor audio quality.
- Make sure everyone has the latest version of WhatsApp – This ensures compatibility with the latest calling features.
- Coordinate schedules to find a convenient time – This reduces the chance of participants missing a call.
- Be cognizant of different time zones – Make sure it’s not too early or late for participants in different geographic regions.
- Test your microphone and speaker setup – This helps avoid issues being heard in a group call.
- Charge your phone before starting the call – A group call will drain battery faster than normal usage.
- Switch to speakerphone or headphones – This allows you to hear the call better, especially with multiple participants.
Conclusion
While WhatsApp Desktop does not currently support initiating new group voice and video calls, there are workarounds that provide similar functionality. By using WhatsApp Web to start calls, or joining an ongoing call from desktop, you can effectively use WhatsApp’s group calling features across multiple devices.
Native group calling support may eventually come to WhatsApp Desktop in the future through new peer-to-peer calling technology. Until then, combination of WhatsApp’s mobile, web, and desktop apps allows users to message and call from the device of their choosing, with some limitations around calling from desktop.
Following best practices for group calls can help maximize the experience and minimize issues. With its ubiquitous user base, WhatsApp group calling enables seamless communication and collaboration worldwide across both mobile and desktop.