Yes, you can absolutely make video calls using WhatsApp on Android smartphones and tablets. WhatsApp has full support for video calling built into the Android app, allowing you to have face-to-face conversations with individuals or groups.
How to make a WhatsApp video call on Android
Making a WhatsApp video call on Android devices is quick and easy. Here are the steps:
- Open the WhatsApp app on your Android phone or tablet.
- Open your chat with the contact you want to video call.
- Tap the video call icon at the top right. This looks like a camera inside a circle.
- Your contact will receive an incoming video call notification. When they answer, the video call will start.
You can switch between using the front and rear cameras during the call by tapping the camera icon in the bottom right corner. Hang up by tapping the red phone button.
Group video calls
As well as one-to-one video calls, you can have group video chats with up to 8 participants on WhatsApp for Android:
- Open a group chat and tap the video call icon to start a group call.
- You can add more participants even after the call has started.
- The interface shows the current active speaker prominently.
Video call features
WhatsApp provides a number of useful features to enhance the video calling experience on Android:
| Picture-in-picture mode | Lets you multitask while on a call, with the video displaying in a small floating window |
| Video pause | Allows you to pause your video if you need to turn off the camera temporarily |
| Mute | Can mute your microphone so the other participant can’t hear you |
| Switch cameras | Toggle between using your front and rear cameras |
| Call lock | Prevent accidental touches from disconnecting the call |
Video and voice call quality
WhatsApp uses your device’s internet connection for video and voice calls. Call quality will depend on the available bandwidth and stability of your connection.
For optimal quality, use a WiFi or mobile broadband connection with good signal strength. Slow or overloaded networks can result in pixelation, freezing, or audio dropouts.
Some things you can try to improve video call performance include:
- Move closer to your WiFi router or enabling mobile data if only using WiFi.
- Close other apps using bandwidth in the background.
- Avoid making calls in areas with network congestion.
- Use headphones to improve audio clarity.
Conclusion
WhatsApp has made it easy and convenient to place free video calls across Android smartphones and tablets. With an intuitive interface, useful features like picture-in-picture mode, and group calling support, it’s a great way to see the faces of friends and family.
As WhatsApp uses your device’s internet connection for calls, quality can vary. But taking steps to maximize bandwidth and reduce background app usage will provide the best experience. With WhatsApp’s global userbase, video calling is a fantastic addition for communicating visually on Android.
Frequently Asked Questions about WhatsApp Video Calls on Android
Does WhatsApp use a lot of data for video calls?
Yes, WhatsApp video calls can use a significant amount of data as they require high bandwidth for smooth video and audio. Video calls consume about 2-4MB per minute based on your connection. So on cellular data with limited data caps, video calls can eat through your allowance quickly.
Can you blur your background on WhatsApp video calls?
Currently, there is no option to blur or change your background in a WhatsApp video call on Android devices. The background environment shows as-is. Some third-party Android apps like BGMI can add background blur, but your call recipient will still see the unmodified video.
Do WhatsApp video calls work on WiFi only?
You can make WhatsApp video calls over any internet connection, including WiFi, mobile data, and cellular networks. However, WiFi tends to provide the fastest, most consistent connectivity needed for high-quality uninterrupted video calls.
Can you record a WhatsApp video call?
Officially, there is no way to natively record a WhatsApp video call within the app itself on Android. However, you can use third-party screen recording apps to capture your device’s screen during the call. But this will only record your side of the video, not your call recipient’s.
How many people can join a WhatsApp video call?
WhatsApp allows up to 8 participants in a group video call. This is an increase from the previous limit of 4 participants. To initiate a group call, start a new video call within a WhatsApp group chat containing up to 8 members.
Can you video call from WhatsApp on Android to iPhone?
Yes, WhatsApp’s video calling feature works seamlessly across Android and iOS. You can initiate or receive WhatsApp video calls between Android and iPhones without issue. The platform compatibility ensures your friends and family remain connected via WhatsApp video call regardless of device types.
Is WhatsApp video calling safe and secure?
WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption for all communications, including voice and video calls. This means only you and the recipient can view the call’s content – not even WhatsApp itself. All video calls are secured with encryption by default to provide privacy and prevent eavesdropping.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Video Call Issues on Android
Can’t start a video call
- Check your internet connection is working properly.
- Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
- Force close and restart the WhatsApp app if the call icon is greyed out.
- Clear app cache and data if issues persist across restarts.
Video calls keep dropping
- Try moving closer to your WiFi router or switch to mobile data.
- Limit bandwidth usage by closing other apps during your call.
- Check for any phone software updates and install if available.
- Disable battery optimizations for WhatsApp using your Android settings.
Video quality is pixelated or blurry
- Simplify your video settings by disabling HD calling in WhatsApp settings.
- Clean your phone camera lens which may be blurring your video.
- Check your phone storage is not completely full and clear space if needed.
- Disable video stabilization in your phone’s camera settings.
Audio echo during video calls
- Enable noise cancellation settings in WhatsApp if available on your phone.
- Try using headphones to prevent echo caused by speaker feedback.
- Turn down your call volume and move device further from speakers to reduce echo.
- Make sure only one device with active WhatsApp account is in the same room.