By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp is reportedly preparing to launch voice and video calling features on its web version, a significant update that will allow users to make calls directly through internet browsers without the need to install a desktop application.
The development was highlighted by WABetaInfo, a portal that tracks WhatsApp updates, citing evidence found in the latest beta version of the app.
For years, the ability to make calls has been limited to the mobile app and the installable desktop clients for Windows and macOS.
The integration of calling features into WhatsApp Web is expected to enhance convenience for the platform’s over 3 billion active users.
Industry observers note that the feature will be particularly advantageous for small enterprise owners, enabling them to establish cost-effective customer care divisions capable of handling audio and video queries directly from office computers using standard webcams.
In addition to the web calling feature, the company is also testing a new privacy function for status updates.
Similar to Instagram’s Close Friends feature, this tool will allow users to curate a specific list of contacts and share status updates exclusively with that group, offering greater control over content visibility.