WhatsApp is improving its calling capabilities for both mobile and desktop platforms. Mobile users can now select specific participants for group calls, avoiding unnecessary notifications to others in the group. Additionally, ten video call effects have been introduced for a more interactive experience.
Desktop users can initiate calls more easily by starting a call, creating a call link, or dialing a number directly from the calls tab. Video calls support high-resolution video for one-on-one and group communication, improving the quality of communication.
Privacy-Oriented On-Device Translation
WhatsApp is also developing a new feature to translate channel updates into multiple languages, building on its chat message translation feature introduced earlier this year. According to WABetaInfo, they revealed this upcoming feature in version 2.24.26.9 of the WhatsApp beta for Android. While still under development and unavailable to beta users, screenshots indicate a toggle will allow users to translate channel updates and chat messages.
The translation feature works on-device to ensure privacy and eliminate the need for an internet connection. Users will need to download language packs, which may result in less precise translations. Initially, the feature will support English, Hindi, Russian, Arabic, Spanish, and Portuguese, with plans to include additional languages in the future.
Although WhatsApp has not announced a release date for the translation feature, they are already rolling out updates to the calling functionality. These features aim to simplify communication and expand accessibility for users in various settings.
