WhatsApp is long-rumored to be working on a voice calling feature for the app, but it has not made an official appearance until lately, but that too in an unexpected way.
Recently, a reddit user posted some screenshots of the voice calling feature. He noted that he downloaded the app from the website, and the feature was enabled when one of his contacts called him.
It appears to work in an invite-like system where a person who already has the feature enabled can call the other person, and it then enables it on the recipient’s device. “Its like an invite thing, where a person with the call feature needs to “call” another person who wants to start using the feature. You need to get the apk from the website and not from the PlayStore,” he noted.
The alleged images also show a slightly different UI, with specific tabs for calls, texts and the contacts. The company is rumored to be testing the new feature in a private beta. There’s no word on when the feature will roll out, but it shouldn’t be too far away. We’ll update you as soon as the feature is released.
How the Invite System Works
The invite system for enabling the voice calling feature on WhatsApp is quite intriguing. Essentially, it leverages the existing user base to gradually roll out the feature. When a user with the voice calling feature enabled calls another user, the feature gets activated on the recipient’s device. This method not only helps in controlled testing but also creates a buzz among users, making them eager to try out the new feature.
This system is reminiscent of how Google initially rolled out Gmail, where users needed an invite to create an account. Such strategies often help in managing server loads and ensuring that any bugs or issues can be addressed before a full-scale rollout. For WhatsApp, this means they can fine-tune the voice calling feature based on real-world usage and feedback.
Potential Impact on Communication
The introduction of voice calling on WhatsApp could significantly impact how people communicate using the app. Currently, WhatsApp is primarily used for text messaging, sharing images, videos, and voice notes. Adding voice calling to the mix makes it a more comprehensive communication tool, potentially reducing the need for other calling apps.
For instance, users who rely on apps like Skype, Viber, or even traditional phone calls might find themselves using WhatsApp more frequently. This could be particularly beneficial in regions where WhatsApp is already the dominant messaging platform. Moreover, voice calling over the internet can be more cost-effective than traditional phone calls, especially for international communication.
Additionally, the new UI with dedicated tabs for calls, texts, and contacts could enhance user experience by making navigation more intuitive. Users can easily switch between different modes of communication, making the app more versatile and user-friendly.
Challenges and Considerations
While the voice calling feature is highly anticipated, it does come with its set of challenges. One of the primary concerns is the quality of calls. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls can sometimes suffer from issues like latency, jitter, and packet loss, especially in areas with poor internet connectivity. WhatsApp will need to ensure that their voice calling feature can deliver high-quality calls consistently.
Another consideration is privacy and security. WhatsApp is known for its end-to-end encryption, which ensures that messages and calls are secure. However, with the introduction of voice calling, the company will need to maintain these high standards to protect user data and privacy.
Lastly, the gradual rollout through an invite system means that not all users will get access to the feature immediately. This could lead to some frustration among users who are eager to try out voice calling but haven’t received an invite yet. However, this phased approach is likely to help WhatsApp manage the rollout more effectively and address any issues that arise during the initial stages.
The upcoming voice calling feature on WhatsApp is set to revolutionize how users interact on the platform. By leveraging an invite system for a controlled rollout, WhatsApp aims to ensure a smooth transition and high-quality user experience. As the feature becomes more widely available, it could potentially change the landscape of digital communication, making WhatsApp an even more indispensable tool for users worldwide.
Source: Reddit
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