Rumors have been flying left right and center hinting the
introduction of video calls on Whatsapp,
a feature that has been long overdue, given the its widespread usage across the
globe. Well, video calls on Whatsapp is now a reality that has come to pass
with the launch set to support every device that runs Whatsapp.
Since last year, the scuttlebutt about Whatsapp video calls
being introduced has left tongues wagging and users expectant. It was finally a
relief when Whatsapp launched the feature to beta users, as recent as three
weeks ago. This was a sure indication that Whatsapp Video call for everyone was
in the offing. This is viewed by many as a move that has been stalled for a
longer timer than expected given Whatsapp’s popularity and its large user base.
This comes after Facebook acquired Whatsapp at a time when its
growth was immense as a communication platform. Applications like Viber and
Facebook messenger have had the bragging rights for a while, being the major
platforms that have been letting users video call. Mark Zuckerberg in post on Facebook
acknowledged how dire the feature was needed and it was now time to deliver. The
post, dated 15th November, stated, “Today we’re bringing video
calling to Whatsapp. Voice calling has grown quickly and video calling has been
one of our community‘s top requests. We’ve been working on it for a while to
make sure it works even in places without a strong network”
You will be able to video call after updating your application
to the latest version and this call can be initiated by clicking onto a
specific contact on Whatsapp and further clicking the call button which will
give you the option to video call or voice call. For a successful connection, the
called party should have also updated their Whatsapp to the latest version. You can also click onto the profile picture avatar and click onto the video call icon .
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This might be a party pooper for the likes of Microsoft’s
Skype and Apple’s Facetime given they will be put users in a conundrum with
regards to “who“ presides over video calls. With whatsapp promising a seamless
communication even in areas without a muscular network, it might actually give
skype Facetime and Viber a run for its money.
update your whatsapp today and engage your friends and
family in Video calls.