Meta-owned WhatsApp has begun rolling out voice and video calling on WhatsApp Web, while a separate Android beta update reveals upcoming customisation features
WhatsApp has started enabling voice and video calling directly within its web version, allowing users to place calls from a browser without installing a desktop application. The feature was first reported by WABetaInfo and is currently being rolled out to users enrolled in the WhatsApp Web beta programme.
Once activated, voice and video call icons appear at the top of individual chat windows on WhatsApp Web. Users can initiate a call by clicking the icon and selecting either voice or video. The calling process runs entirely within the browser interface.
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At present, the web version supports only one-to-one calls. Group calling functionality is still under development. According to reports, WhatsApp is working on enabling group voice and video calls on the web, with an expected participant limit of up to 32 users. However, initial releases may begin with a lower limit while testing continues. A broader rollout is expected after performance and reliability assessments are completed.
WhatsApp has stated that voice and video calls on the web will continue to use end-to-end encryption, the same security system used on its mobile and desktop apps. This means calls made through the browser will maintain the same privacy standards as other platforms.
The web-based calling feature also includes screen sharing support during video calls, a function already available on the desktop application. This addition makes WhatsApp Web more suitable for work discussions, demonstrations and remote assistance sessions.
Because the feature operates within a browser, it extends compatibility to operating systems such as Linux, where an official WhatsApp desktop application is not available. This removes the need for third-party applications or relying on a connected smartphone for calls.
In a separate development, WhatsApp is also working on new personalisation features for Android users. The update was spotted in WhatsApp beta version 2.26.6.1 for Android. It introduces app icon and theme customisation options.
Users will reportedly be able to choose from 14 new app icons, including designs named Aurora, Fluffy, Galaxy, Clay, Sparkle and Neon. Additionally, seven monochromatic icon options will be available in brown, green, purple, orange, blue, pink and monochrome. Users will also retain the option to revert to the classic WhatsApp icon.
The update will also allow users to change the app’s branding colour. A total of 19 colour options have been identified in the beta version, including the default green, royal blue, violet, navy blue, light purple, dark grey, coral, dark olive green, teal, burgundy, brown, beige, seafoam green, yellow, olive green, pink, red, orange and golden yellow.
Reports suggest that these customisation features may be part of an upcoming premium subscription plan. The subscription is expected to be optional, with core messaging and calling services remaining free. Pricing details have not yet been disclosed and may vary by country.
Together, the browser-based calling rollout and Android beta customisation features indicate a broader effort by WhatsApp to expand functionality across platforms while exploring new monetisation options without affecting essential services.
Published: 10 Feb 2026, 01:45 pm IST
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