According to an Android Authority report, Google is testing a feature allowing users to start WhatsApp video calls directly from Google Messages, eliminating the need to switch between apps.
Testing and Functionality
During an APK teardown of Google Messages version 20250131, Assemble Debug from Android Authority managed to activate and test the new feature. If both users have WhatsApp installed and set up, tapping the video call button within Google Messages will initiate a WhatsApp call. If the recipient does not have WhatsApp, the call is expected to default to Google Meet instead.
Current Limitations and Future Expansion
At the moment, this feature seems to be available only for private one-on-one chats. However, reports suggest that it may extend to groups in future updates. Currently, Google Messages requires Google Meet for video calls, meaning both participants must install the app, log into their Google accounts, and use a phone number that supports LTE-based calling.
While this system works, it is not always the most efficient, given the widespread use of other video-calling apps like WhatsApp.
Potential Rollout and Future Developments
Google has not officially confirmed when this feature will be available to the public. The company will likely introduce it in beta versions first to gather user feedback before making a full release. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether users will be able to choose between WhatsApp and Google Meet before making a call.
Beyond video calls, Google could take this integration further by supporting internet-based voice calls directly from Google Messages.
That’s how Google gets ya. They trying to be trojan Horse for whatsapp and Meta. They’ve tried everything in their power for last 5 years to get people on to their own video calling and Messaging app so much so that around 2019 they demanded every Android phone manufacturer to put in the Google’s default messaging app if they want to put Google play in their phone. And you have seen slowly messages app is from Google in every Android phone released in last 4-5 years.
They thought this was secret way to dethrone whatsapp. They thought that by taking control of RCS messaging service they’d be able to switch people over to their Messages app. But nothing of sort happened and now Google is down to this dirty tactic. I Hope meta disallows it’s API which made this functionality happen for Google only.