WhatsApp is expanding its feature set beyond traditional messaging by introducing new functionalities. Building on the recent addition of screen-sharing, WhatsApp is now testing a Schedule Group Calls feature.
This move is part of Meta’s broader effort to enhance WhatsApp beyond being just a messaging platform and position it more competitively against professional video-calling applications like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams.
Also Read: WhatsApp starts rolling out multi-account support to beta testers
The new Schedule Group Call feature has been spotted by WaBetaInfo in the latest WhatsApp for Android beta version. This feature allows WhatsApp users to plan and schedule voice calls and group chats in advance. Users can select a date and time for the scheduled call and notify the group members about it.
Here’s how the scheduling process works:
- Open WhatsApp and access the group you want to schedule a call with.
- Tap on the “Phone” icon, indicating you want to make a call.
- Choose the option to schedule a call.
- Select the date and time for the call to take place.
- An invite for the call will be sent to the group members, and those who decide to join will receive a reminder 15 minutes before the scheduled call begins.
While the Schedule Group Call feature is currently in the beta state and available only on WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.23.17.13, it is expected to be rolled out more widely in the future. The timeline for its broader release could follow a similar pattern to WhatsApp’s recent Screen Sharing feature, which transitioned from beta testing to a wider release in just over a month.
