WhatsApp Web Launches Browser-Based Calling to Bridge Communication Gaps
Kakuma, 10 February 2026
WhatsApp has begun rolling out voice and video calling directly through web browsers, eliminating the need for desktop app downloads. This breakthrough particularly benefits refugee communities in camps like Kakuma, who rely on shared computers and have limited smartphone storage. The feature supports one-to-one conversations with end-to-end encryption and screen sharing capabilities, currently available to beta users before wider release.
How to Access the New Calling Features
Users can access the voice and video calling functionality by opening WhatsApp Web in their browser and navigating to individual chat conversations [1]. The calling feature appears as prominent ‘Voice’ and ‘Video’ buttons within the chat interface, allowing users to initiate calls directly from the conversation window [1]. Currently, the feature is available to users enrolled in the WhatsApp Web beta programme, with calls supporting one-to-one conversations only [2][3]. To check if the feature is available, users should look for phone and camera icons in their individual chats, as the rollout is gradual [4].
Security and Technical Specifications
All calls placed through WhatsApp Web maintain end-to-end encryption using the Signal protocol, the same security standard employed across WhatsApp’s platform since 2016 [3][4]. This means only call participants can access the audio and video content, with Meta emphasising that data protection standards remain unchanged from other WhatsApp applications [4]. The web-based calls include screen sharing functionality during video conversations, allowing users to present their screens in real-time [2][3]. Indicator icons confirm encryption status during connections, providing users with visual confirmation of secure communication [4].
Future Developments and Wider Rollout
WhatsApp is developing support for group calls directly through the browser, with internal testing showing capacity for up to 32 participants [4]. The company plans to introduce additional collaborative call management tools in future updates, expanding the functionality beyond current one-to-one limitations [4]. The calling feature is expected to reach stable WhatsApp Web users in the coming weeks, moving beyond the current beta user restriction [2]. Group calling functionality will likely arrive as the next major update to the web-based platform [2].