Facebook-owned popular messaging platform WhatsApp has updated its joinable calls feature, which now lets users join an ongoing group video directly from the group chat window.
The joinable calls feature, which was first introduced in July, allows users to join an ongoing group call after it has begun.
According to the statement, the instant messaging service has made significant enhancements to the feature by combining it with WhatsApp groups. The name of the group will now be displayed instead of the names of the members in group call alerts, as part of the most recent upgrade.
“With group calling growing in popularity, integrating join-able calls gives WhatsApp users a new spontaneous way to connect with their family and friends’ groups. We are making it easier to connect spontaneously with your groups. Join ongoing calls with your groups anytime, effortlessly, and directly from the chat view with one click,” WhatsApp said.
When a group call is started, all members have the option of joining right away or later. Within the group chat, the latter will see a distinct tab with a Join button, which they can tap to join the call. It should be noted that only people who are part of the respective WhatsApp group can join an ongoing group call.
Additionally, WhatsApp says the calls will now have a light distinct ringtone, making them feel “as light as sending and receiving a message.”
Recently, WhatsApp added new features to attract new users and ensure privacy for the existing ones on the platform. Last week, it began rolling out end-to-end encryption for Google Drive and iCloud backups.
