WhatsApp, the popular chat platform owned by Meta, is reportedly increasing the limit for group video calls on its desktop application. Currently, WhatsApp allows video calls with up to 8 users, but the latest beta version of WhatsApp for desktop is testing the ability to have video calls with up to 32 people. This upcoming update is expected to significantly enhance the group video-calling experience for desktop users.
Expansion of Group Video Call Limit
WABetaInfo, a feature tracker for WhatsApp, discovered the increased group video call limit on the WhatsApp beta for Windows 2.2324.1.0. The platform has initiated testing to enable users to start video calls with up to 32 participants. Presently, WhatsApp Desktop users can make audio and video calls with 8 people, via the Windows application. However, this update is anticipated to raise the limit for all users once the beta testing phase concludes.
Server-Side Update and Beta Testing
According to WABetaInfo, some users who have installed the latest beta version of the desktop app will receive a prompt to initiate audio or video calls with contacts or groups of up to 32 people. However, it is important to note that not all users on the beta version will see this message, suggesting that it is enabled through a server-side update.
Testing and Installation
Users interested in testing the expanded group video calling feature with up to 32 participants can download the latest WhatsApp beta for Windows update from the Microsoft Store. Unlike the beta versions of WhatsApp for Android and iOS, Windows users are not required to sign up for beta updates. Additionally, users can concurrently install both the stable and beta versions of the app on the same device.
Discontinuation of WhatsApp Desktop App for Windows
In a recent report, WABetaInfo revealed that WhatsApp has discontinued support for the Electron-based WhatsApp Desktop app for Windows. As a result, all users running the older version of the app will need to install the native app from the Microsoft Store. It is worth noting that the upcoming version of the native app, available through the app store, will include the ability to initiate video calls with up to 32 people.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s decision to expand the group video call limit for its desktop application reflects the company’s commitment to providing enhanced communication experiences for its users. By allowing video calls with up to 32 participants, WhatsApp aims to facilitate more inclusive and engaging conversations among larger groups. Users eager to explore this feature can download the latest WhatsApp beta for Windows update, while the stable version with increased group video call capacity will be made available through the Microsoft Store in the near future.