WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to easily connect with friends and family. One of the key features of WhatsApp is video calling, which lets you have face-to-face conversations over the internet.
What are the requirements for WhatsApp video calls?
To make video calls on WhatsApp, you need the following:
- A smartphone with front and rear cameras
- The latest version of WhatsApp installed
- An internet connection (WiFi or mobile data)
- Your contacts must also have WhatsApp installed and be using the latest version
As long as you and your contact have these requirements met, you can enjoy free HD video calls over WhatsApp.
How to start a video call on WhatsApp
Starting a video call on WhatsApp is very straightforward:
- Open WhatsApp and go to your contacts list
- Tap the contact you want to video call
- Tap the video call icon at the top right (it looks like a video camera)
- Your contact will be notified of your video call request and can choose to accept or decline it
- Once they accept, the video call will start and you’ll be able to see and hear each other in real-time video
You can also start a video call during an ongoing chat. Simply tap the video call icon in the chat window and follow the same process.
How to receive a WhatsApp video call
When someone tries to video call you on WhatsApp, you’ll get a notification indicating the incoming call. Here’s how to receive it:
- When you get the video call notification, tap the Accept button to answer or Decline to reject the call
- If you accept the call, the video call will start immediately and you’ll see the caller’s live camera feed
- Adjust your phone position so your front camera is facing you during the call
- To end the call, tap the red End Call button on your screen
If you miss a video call, you’ll get a notification that you missed the call. You can tap the notification to return the video call.
How to make a WhatsApp video call on iPhone
On iPhones, the process to make and receive WhatsApp video calls is the same as on Android. Here are the steps:
- Open WhatsApp and select the chat for the contact you want to call
- Tap the video camera icon at the top right corner of the chat
- The contact will be notified of your call request and can accept or decline it
- When they accept, the video call will start immediately
- To end the call, tap the red End button on your screen
For incoming calls, tap Accept to answer or Decline to reject. Missed calls will appear in your notifications.
How to make a WhatsApp video call on Android
On Android phones, you can video call your WhatsApp contacts by:
- Opening WhatsApp and selecting the chat for the contact
- Tapping the video camera icon in the top right of the chat
- The contact will get your video call request notification
- When they accept, the video call will start right away
- To end the call, tap the red End button
To answer incoming calls, tap Accept or Decline on the notification. Missed calls will appear in your notifications shade.
WhatsApp video call tips and tricks
Here are some tips to improve your WhatsApp video calling experience:
- Make sure you have a strong internet connection for smooth, HD video quality
- Adjust your camera angle so your face and shoulders are visible during calls
- Tap the mute button if you need to block background noise on your end
- Use headphones for better sound and to avoid echo issues
- Switch between front and rear cameras during calls by tapping the camera icon
- Tap the volume buttons on your phone to adjust the call volume
- You can multitask during a call by minimizing the call window and using other apps
- Activate WhatsApp’s face and touch unlock features for extra security
How many people can be on a WhatsApp video call?
WhatsApp has the following group video call limits:
| WhatsApp Version | Maximum Participants |
|---|---|
| WhatsApp for iOS | 8 participants |
| WhatsApp for Android | 8 participants |
| WhatsApp Web/Desktop | 8 participants |
So up to 8 people can join a WhatsApp group video call currently. Note that all participants need to have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
How to change camera during WhatsApp video call
If you want to switch between using your front and rear cameras during a WhatsApp video call, just tap the camera icon in the bottom right of the call screen. This lets you easily swap between showing your face and showing your surroundings.
Can you WhatsApp video call on WiFi only?
Yes, WhatsApp video calls will work perfectly fine over a WiFi internet connection, without needing mobile data. As long as you have a steady, high-speed WiFi signal, you can make endless WhatsApp video calls without using up your mobile data allowance.
How to make WhatsApp video calls on PC and Mac
By linking your smartphone to WhatsApp Web on your computer, you can make and receive WhatsApp video calls directly on your PC or Mac. Here’s how:
- Firstly, open WhatsApp on your phone and tap Menu > Linked Devices
- Then go to web.whatsapp.com on your computer and scan the QR code to link it
- Your PC will now mirror your phone’s WhatsApp account and notifications
- To video call, click the video camera icon next to a chat just like on your phone
- The video call will open in a small popup window on your computer
This allows you to seamlessly make WhatsApp video calls on your PC, with all notifications and calls mirrored from your smartphone.
How to share screen on WhatsApp video call
WhatsApp allows you to share your phone screen with someone during a one-on-one video call. Here are the steps:
- Start a WhatsApp video call with the contact
- Once connected, tap the three-dot menu icon in the top right of the call
- Select Share Screen from the menu options
- Confirm that you want to start sharing your screen with the caller
- Your phone screen will now be shared live with the caller during the video call
- To stop sharing, open the three-dot menu again and select Stop Sharing
This is useful for giving demos, presentations, or watching videos together during a call.
Conclusion
WhatsApp video calling provides a convenient way to have face-to-face conversations on your smartphone. With an intuitive interface across iOS and Android, it’s easy to start high-quality video calls with individuals or groups.
Optimizing your video call setup, internet connection, and camera angle can further enhance the experience. WhatsApp’s voice and video calls are secured with end-to-end encryption for privacy as well. With the ability to make calls over WiFi, share screens, and switch cameras, WhatsApp video calling packs an impressive set of features.