The desktop version of WhatsApp allows end-to-end encrypted voice and video calls. However, the function is initially only available on the PC.
WhatsApp will also enable users to make voice and video calls on their PC in the future. So far only messages could be sent there. The calls are encrypted end-to-end, like all communication via the Facebook subsidiary, and of course free of charge.
The desktop app also allows vertical and horizontal screens, conversation partners appear in a separate window that users can adjust to their screen size. This remains in the foreground.
To make calls using the desktop app, you first have to install it and link it to your mobile device. For security, this can also be done using biometric authentication, i.e. fingerprints or facial recognition. WhatsApp says it cannot access it. If the desktop app is running, calls can be started just as easily with a click on the handset icon as in the mobile version.
1: 1 calls with WhatsApp
Initially, it is all about voice and video calls between two participants. “We start with personal calls in the WhatsApp desktop app to ensure that we can offer you a reliable, high-quality experience,” says the blog post . Group calls have been possible at least mobile since last year , they are limited to eight conversation partners and are also end-to-end encrypted. They should also follow on the desktop – it is unclear when the time will come.
The first users can now make calls via the desktop app, others will have to be patient – the function will be made available worldwide over the course of the next week. The function will soon also be available for macOS devices.
The Messenger Signal already offers end-to-end encrypted group calls , as does Zoom and soon also teams.
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