Not available for iOS devices.
By Dileep Thekkethil
BENGALURU: WhatsApp launched today its much awaited voice call feature for all Android users via a new update, thus putting end to scam links circulating through the world’s most popular messaging app.
Users who have auto-update enabled in Google Play will receive the new version once they connect to the internet meanwhile, others can manually download the voice call updated WhatsApp from the official website or by visiting Google Play.
Voice call feature in WhatsApp is a VoIP based functionality, popularly known as Internet telephony. WhatsApp calling feature has been in the testing stage for the last few months and only a few selected users were able to use it on “invite only” basis.
The new version, 2.12.19, is currently not available for iOS devices but, according to sources, the Facebook-owned company will soon launch the same update in App Store. Android users can also download the APK file of WhatsApp but, they have to enable “install from unknown sources” before starting the installation process.
Once the installation is complete, users will get an extra tab called Calls along with Chat and Contacts. Users can make calls to people in their contact who uses WhatsApp. To get connected it is essential that the other person should also have the updates version of WhatsApp installed.
The new WhatsApp call feature works similar to the regular Android calls. Users will get an incoming call notification on the screen along with the ringtone. WhatsApp also maintains a call registry providing details about received calls, missed calls, time etc…
Even if the contacted person is unavailable, the phone will ring but, the receiver will only get a missed call alert once he is back on internet connection. Users also have options to mute calls, put on loudspeaker or hang up, just like in traditional voice calling.
In UAE, major network provider Etisalat has already blocked WhatsApp call and the reaction of Indian telecom industry is yet to come as this newly added feature could hamper the prospects of network providers.