WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.23.17.16.
What’s new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out improvements to the calling interface, and they are available to some beta testers!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Calling interface |
| Status? | Rolling out |
| Compatibility? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.17.16 is marked as a compatible update, but some users may be able to get the same changes by installing one of the following versions: 2.23.17.13, 2.23.17.14, and 2.23.17.15. |
| I’ve installed this update but I don’t have this feature. Why? | This feature is available to some beta testers, and it’s rolling out to more users over the coming days. |
| Credits: | Swakshan, for contributing, testing, and reporting! In addition, thanks to Dilshan Uyangoda, PJB, FastenM, Muhammad Hammad, Technical MJ TV, and Mayganito, for further testing and reporting! |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.17.15: what’s new? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to suggest new community groups! |
CALLING INTERFACE
WhatsApp continues to work towards bringing further enhancements to calls. After releasing the ability to schedule group calls to some beta testers as spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.17.7 update, WhatsApp is now focusing on introducing additional tools to facilitate the transition to group calls. Specifically, thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.17.16 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, some beta testers may experiment with some improvements regarding the calling interface:
As you can see in this screenshot, the bottom modal view now includes the call type and highlights that it is end-to-end encrypted. But that’s not all: the most significant change involves a new button that allows you to easily add one or more contacts to the current call. Previously, this feature was not available directly in the bottom modal view and it was not immediately visible.
Thanks to the ability to instantly add a contact to the call, WhatsApp adds another enhancement to the user experience during calls. The changes regarding the new calling interface save time and, more importantly, further highlight the option to add new people to the ongoing call, even if it was initiated with just one contact. In fact, many people used to interrupt the currently active call and then initiate a new one with additional contacts. In our opinion, this entry point finally facilitates group conversations on WhatsApp since it’s much more visible than before.
The new calling interface is available to some beta testers that install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android, and it’s rolling out to even more people over the coming days.
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