WhatsApp Now Lets Users Join Group Calls That Have Already Begun

Group calls on WhatsApp will most likely be in the form of Zoom calls and other more free-form chats. The company has started introducing the ability to join a group call that has already started, instead of having to be present when the call was initiated. WhatsApp says you can drop in and out (just like in an ongoing Zoom call) at will as long as you were invited at the beginning.

The feature also has a call information screen that shows who is present on the call and those who’ve been invited. Also, don’t worry if you have to press ignore to speak. If you decide to join later, the door will remain open.

To Join a Call 

As you can see in the YouTube video, you can join an incoming group video call. First, you will get a notification when someone has invited you to join a group video call. WhatsApp says, If you can’t join, tap Ignore, whereas, to open the call info screen, click Join. While looking at the call menu, users can preview the call participants and other invitees. Once you click “Join”, you join the call.

Now, what if you missed the call-invite but it’s still ongoing? 

Just click the CALLS tab. If the call is ongoing, join the call by clicking it. This will open the call info screen.

From the call menu, click Join. 

WhatsApp notes that only eight participants can be active on a call at one time. During a group video call, you have the option to turn your video off by tapping Video off. You also cannot remove a contact during a group video call. “The contact would need to hang up their phone to disconnect from the call.” WhatsApp added. 

While it’s possible to be in a group video call with someone you’ve blocked, you can’t add a contact that you’ve blocked to the call or a contact that has blocked you.

The Instant-messaging platform confirmed that the new feature is only available on Android phones running 4.1 or newer.