WhatsApp Brings End-to-End Encrypted Audio and Video Calls to Your Web Browser

There’s something new for WhatsApp users, especially on the Web version. No need to install the desktop app anymore: a simple browser tab is now enough to start or receive a call, one-to-one or in a group, with end-to-end encryption. Here are the latest security-focused additions.

End-to-end encrypted calls, with nothing to install

In a post published on July 28, 2026, Meta unveiled new features for WhatsApp. The first one concerns WhatsApp for the Web. Until now, calling from a computer required using the WhatsApp app (the desktop app). From now on, that is no longer required, as everything can happen from web.whatsapp.com. From this address, you can place and receive audio and video calls, سواء 1-1 or in a group.

Even though it happens in a web browser, there are features such as:

• Screen sharing,
• Emoji reactions,
• A dedicated "Calls" tab, with full history and favorites.

On the security side, Meta says calls made from the web remain end-to-end encrypted, with no time limit.

Call transfer, waiting room, and QuickHD

Beyond this new feature for WhatsApp Web, Meta also announced other additions, as follows:

• Call transfer between devices: an ongoing group call can be moved from one device to another without hanging up. You start on mobile, continue on WhatsApp Web or Desktop when you arrive at the office, and vice versa.
• Waiting room for group calls: when creating a call link, enabling the required approval option places participants in a virtual waiting room while they wait for the organizer’s approval (or not).
• QuickHD: this is fast high definition, intended to arrive within the very first seconds of the call.
• Background noise suppression: reduction of ambient noise, which can be enabled or disabled at any time from the in-call settings.

An acknowledged use case: the locked-down workstation

For admins, there is an interesting point, and it is part of Meta’s pitch. Here is the translated passage: "Whether you’re a student using a shared computer, using a work laptop on which it’s impossible to download apps, or simply prefer your browser, you can make a call without leaving the browser you’re already in."

In short, Meta says that even if your IT department prevents you from installing WhatsApp, you can now call directly via the Web to get around the restrictions. It is still possible to tackle web filtering, of course.

What do you think?

Florian Burnel Co-founder of IT-Connect

Systems and network engineer, co-founder of IT-Connect and Microsoft MVP "Cloud and Datacenter Management". I'd like to share my experience and discoveries through my articles. I'm a generalist with a particular interest in Microsoft solutions and scripting. Enjoy your reading.

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