WhatsApp has rolled out a major upgrade to its calling experience: users can now schedule group calls in advance, making coordination easier than ever
How the Feature Works
- Head to your Calls tab, tap the “+” icon, and choose “Schedule call” to set a date and time for your group or one-on-one call
- Add participants or share a call link—whether you’re planning a friend get-together or a work meeting
- All invitees receive a notification before the call, ensuring no one misses it
- Scheduled calls are neatly organized in the Calls tab, listing upcoming sessions, attendees, and shareable links
Interactive Tools for Group Engagement
Beyond scheduling, WhatsApp now offers in-call features to enhance group dynamics:
- Raise Hand: Participants can non-disruptively signal when they want to speak
- Emoji Reactions: React mid-call with expressive emojis—no interruptions needed
- Join Notifications: If someone joins via a shared call link, the call creator receives a notification
Why This Update Matters
WhatsApp is positioning itself as a true contender against platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet by integrating call scheduling and in-call controls directly in the app. These enhancements are designed to make group communication feel more organized, professional, and user-friendly no matter the context The Economic Times
Privacy remains a priority—both scheduled and live calls are protected with end-to-end encryption, ensuring secure interactions
Quick Recap
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Schedule Calls | Plan group or one-on-one calls ahead of time |
| Manage Upcoming Calls | View attendees, invite via links, set reminders |
| In-Call Engagement Tools | Raise hand, send emoji reactions |
| Join Notifications | Call creator alerted when someone joins via link |
| Privacy Guarantee | All calls remain end-to-end encrypted |
Bottom Line
With its latest update, WhatsApp is transforming group calls into a more structured and engaging experience. Whether it’s for family chats or professional meetings, you can now plan ahead, interact smoothly, and manage calls effectively—all within your favorite messaging app.
