Popular messaging platform WhatsApp has rolled out a new voice chat feature for improved group calling. This update allows group members to have free-flowing conversations without the disruptiveness of traditional group calls that ring all users.
The feature is currently available to users who have updated their WhatsApp applications to the latest versions on both Android and iOS through the Google Play Store and the App Store, respectively. Once activated for a group, members will notice an option to initiate a voice chat, replacing the traditional group call button.
How It Works:
Once enabled for a group, members will see a ‘Start Voice Chat’ option instead of the standard group call button when they open the group. Tapping this will initiate a voice chat.
Importantly, unlike a regular group call, not all members are alerted when a voice chat begins. Only those who are actively part of the voice chat will be notified. Other members can continue texting normally without interruption.
Participants can join and leave the voice chat multiple times as per their convenience. The chat window shows profiles of members currently speaking on the call. Users can simultaneously text other group members not on the voice chat.
This allows members the flexibility to multitask within WhatsApp while the conversation is happening. The voice chat concludes when no participant has been active for an hour or when all users exit the chat.
Rollout Details
As per WhatsApp’s announcement, voice chats are being rolled out first to groups larger than 32 members. The company’s FAQ page mentions that currently, groups between 33 to 128 participants can use the feature.
Voice chats are restricted to a user’s primary device as linked devices do not support the functionality yet.
Intent Behind Feature
Voice chats make group calling seamless by reducing disruptiveness and enabling users to multitask. This brings WhatsApp on par with professional platforms like Slack and Discord which already offer similar capabilities.
The feature provides more flexibility and control to users during group calls compared to WhatsApp’s existing video and voice calling options.
As group sizes on WhatsApp can be large, voice chats allow smooth conversations between interested members without forcing participation on others. This makes large group calling much easier and user-friendly.
The voice chat update shows WhatsApp’s focus on enhancing engagement and utility for group interactions on its platform amid rising competition.
