WhatsApp makes calls smarter with scheduling, interactive features

New Delhi: WhatsApp has launched a new update aimed at making calls more organised and interactive for users. The update introduces the ability to schedule calls in advance, whether for one-on-one conversations or group discussions. Users can set a date and time, plan calls ahead, and send invitations directly to contacts or groups, with reminders ensuring participants do not miss important conversations.

The update also adds new in-call features to enhance group discussions. A "raise hand" option allows participants to signal when they want to speak without interrupting others, while emoji reactions let users share quick responses and emotions during a call without breaking the flow.

Additionally, the Calls tab has been improved to display all upcoming calls along with participant names. Users can share call invite links directly from the tab, and organisers receive notifications whenever someone joins via a link. All scheduled and live calls remain protected with WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption, ensuring conversations stay private and secure.

Scheduling a call is simple: users open the Calls tab, select a contact or group, tap "Schedule Call," choose the call type, date, and time, and confirm. These updates cater to both personal and professional use, helping people plan, manage, and engage more effectively during calls.

Earlier this month, WhatsApp also reported banning over 98 lakh accounts in India in June to curb abuse and harmful activity. Of these, nearly 19.79 lakh accounts were proactively banned before any user complaints were received, according to WhatsApp’s India Monthly Report.

With IANS inputs