WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of WhatsApp’s key features is video calling, allowing users to make video calls to other WhatsApp users for free.
While WhatsApp’s video calling provides a convenient way to see and talk to friends and family, many users want more control over the visual appearance of themselves during video chats. Specifically, some WhatsApp users on iPhone want to know if they can apply filters to enhance their appearance or add fun effects during WhatsApp video calls.
Can You Use Filters on WhatsApp Video Calls on iPhone?
The short answer is yes, it is possible to use filters during WhatsApp video calls on iPhone. However, WhatsApp does not have built-in filters or effects for video calls.
Instead, iPhone users need to use third-party apps that provide filters and then integrate them with WhatsApp video calling. There are a few different apps that can accomplish this.
Using Snapchat Filters on WhatsApp Video Calls
One of the most popular apps for filters and visual effects is Snapchat. The Snapchat app has a huge library of filters, lenses, and effects that can transform your look.
To use Snapchat filters on a WhatsApp video call:
- Open Snapchat and select a filter you want to apply.
- Tap and hold on the filter icon to lock and hold the filter.
- While still holding the filter, switch apps and open WhatsApp.
- Start a video call with a WhatsApp contact.
- The Snapchat filter should now be applied to your video feed in WhatsApp!
This process essentially lets you broadcast your Snapchat camera with filters applied as your video source in WhatsApp video calls. One thing to keep in mind is you need to continue holding the filter icon for it to stay applied.
Using Instagram Filters on WhatsApp Video
Similar to Snapchat, Instagram also has a plethora of fun filters and effects that can be applied to your video. To use Instagram filters:
- Open Instagram and pick a filter you want.
- Tap and hold the filter icon to keep it applied.
- With the filter held, switch over to your WhatsApp app.
- Make a video call to a WhatsApp contact.
- The Instagram filter should be on your video feed.
Again, you need to hold the filter icon for the effect to be continually applied. One cool thing about Instagram filters is many add music, so your WhatsApp caller will be able to see and hear the filter’s audio effects too!
Using Third-Party Apps Like B612
In addition to Snapchat and Instagram, there are dedicated apps for applying filters and effects to your iPhone camera. One top option is B612, which offers beauty tools, fun stickers, and unique filters.
To use B612:
- Open B612 and browse filters and beauty effects.
- Choose one and tap the video icon to activate the camera with the effect applied.
- Next, open your WhatsApp app and start a video call.
- Finally, switch back to B612 so the camera broadcast continues during your WhatsApp call.
The cool thing about B612 is you can customize filters and effects before broadcasting to WhatsApp, allowing for more control.
Tips for Using Filters on WhatsApp iPhone Video Calls
Here are some top tips to leverage filters successfully on WhatsApp video calls from your iPhone:
- Pick fun, engaging filters that match your personality or the occasion. Quirky animal filters are great for kids, whereas beautiful lighting filters are perfect for special occasions.
- Test and practice filters first before a video call to pick your favorites. Figure out which filters are difficult to hold down.
- Use headphone audio controls to swap between filter apps and WhatsApp quickly.
- Switch off filters to show your real face at times so your personality shines through.
- Be aware of overusing filters as conversations feel more genuine without excessive effects.
Challenges of Using External Filters on WhatsApp
While using external apps is a clever workaround, there are some challenges to keep in mind:
- You can’t apply filters natively within WhatsApp. The extra steps can be annoying.
- It’s difficult to hold down the filter icon which can lead to slipping.
- Switching between apps can seem disjointed to the person you’re calling.
- Audio effects don’t carry over from external apps.
- WhatsApp video call quality can downgrade if also broadcasting other camera apps.
WhatsApp Developers Have Not Added Filter Features
The likely reason WhatsApp has not built in filter and effect options within video calls is to keep the interface clean and focused on communication.
Video calls are seen as a utility for conversations, rather than a entertainment medium like Snapchat or Instagram. Still, users clearly want to express themselves and enhance their appearance during calls.
Developers may be cautious about overcomplicating the app with too many media features. But in the future, integrating at least some basic selfie filters natively into WhatsApp could improve the video calling experience.
Third-Party WhatsApp Filter Apps
In addition to using external apps like Snapchat, some developers have created apps specifically for applying filters within WhatsApp. Two options are:
- WhatsApp Filters Video Call – Offers beauty tools and filters made specifically for WhatsApp video calls. However, bugs have been reported with the app.
- Video Call Filter – Claims to add filters to any video calling app. Provides beauty effects and basic color filters.
These third-party utilities attempt to address the lack of integrated WhatsApp filter options. However, being external to WhatsApp likely limits quality and reliability. Proceed with caution trying unknown third-party apps.
Top WhatsApp Filter Apps Comparison
| App | Number of Filters | Effects Offered | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snapchat | 180+ | Facial effects, captions, geofilters | Moderate |
| 50+ | AR filters, beauty effects | Moderate | |
| B612 | 100+ | Beauty tools, masks, filters | Easy |
Future WhatsApp Filter Functionality
Given the demand from users, WhatsApp may eventually integrate more creativity tools into its video calling. Potential future filter features could include:
- Beauty retouching tools like smoothing skin or whitening teeth.
- 2D animated masks and filters that map to face movements.
- Background blur or custom backgrounds.
- Stickers and meme effects.
- Filters based on holidays, events, seasons.
If introduced thoughtfully, filters within WhatsApp itself could really enhance the emotional expression and fun during video calls. But the priority should still remain on quality video connectivity for conversational purposes.
Conclusion
Although WhatsApp does not currently offer native video call filters, iPhone users have workarounds using Snapchat, Instagram, B612, and other apps. While third-party options require some extra steps, the ability to add filters brings creativity and personalization to WhatsApp video chats.
Looking ahead, WhatsApp may gradually incorporate more expressive tools into its flagship communication app. But for now, the external app approach allows those wanting a touch of style or whimsy on iPhone video calls to accessorize their look.
So spice up your next family call or chat with friends by trying filters to show off your best self. Just be thoughtful about overdoing it, as authentic communication should remain the priority rather than over-filtered distraction.