WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging platforms, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the key features of WhatsApp is voice and video calling, allowing you to easily connect with friends and family. While WhatsApp calls are available on iPhone and Android phones by default, you can also use WhatsApp calling on your Mac computer.
Requirements for joining WhatsApp calls on Mac
To join WhatsApp calls from your Mac, you need to meet the following requirements:
- A Mac computer running macOS 10.13 or later
- The latest version of WhatsApp desktop app installed
- An active internet connection on both your phone and computer
- Your phone number registered with WhatsApp
- WhatsApp calling enabled on your phone
As long as your Mac meets these requirements, you’ll be able to seamlessly join WhatsApp calls directly from the desktop app.
Step 1: Install WhatsApp Desktop
The first step is to download and install the WhatsApp desktop app on your Mac. Here’s how:
- Go to https://www.whatsapp.com/download/ on your Mac.
- Click on the “Download for Mac” button to download the WhatsApp desktop app.
- Once downloaded, open the WhatsApp installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install WhatsApp.
- The WhatsApp desktop app will be installed in your Applications folder.
The WhatsApp desktop provides the same messaging capabilities as the mobile app, with the added convenience of using your Mac’s larger screen and hardware keyboard.
Step 2: Link the Desktop App to Your Phone
After installing the WhatsApp desktop app, you need to link it to your phone to enable calling:
- Open the WhatsApp desktop app on your Mac.
- You should see a QR code on the screen.
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone or Android phone.
- Tap on the three-dot menu icon.
- Select WhatsApp Web.
- Point your phone’s camera at the QR code on the desktop screen.
- Your phone will now be linked to the desktop app.
Linking your phone allows the WhatsApp desktop app to sync your chats, messages, calls and contacts seamlessly between devices.
Step 3: Make Sure Calling is Enabled
To join WhatsApp calls from your Mac, you need to make sure calling is enabled on both devices:
- On your iPhone – Go to Settings > WhatsApp > Calls and enable WhatsApp Calling.
- On Android – Open WhatsApp, tap the three-dot menu and go to Settings > Calls. Make sure the option for calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data is enabled.
- On Desktop – Calling should be enabled by default when you link the desktop app to your phone. But you can check by clicking on the Calls tab to see your call settings.
As long as calling is enabled on both your phone and desktop, you’ll be able to seamlessly make and receive WhatsApp calls from either device.
Step 4: Join a WhatsApp Call on Desktop
Once your desktop and phone are linked, and calling is enabled, joining a WhatsApp call is easy:
- When you receive an incoming WhatsApp call on your phone, your desktop will also ring simultaneously.
- To join the call on desktop, simply click the Accept button on the incoming call notification pop-up.
- This will join the call through your Mac’s microphone and speakers.
- You can switch between your phone and desktop by selecting the device icon at the top during the call.
- To end the call, click End on whichever device you are currently using.
Your active WhatsApp calls will always show up in the Calls tab on desktop and mobile, allowing you to seamlessly switch devices or merge calls.
Tips for Smooth WhatsApp Calling on Mac
Follow these tips to ensure your WhatsApp calling experience on Mac is optimal:
- Keep your Mac and phone connected to a stable WiFi or cellular data connection for uninterrupted calls.
- Position your Mac microphone properly so your voice is clearly audible to the other party.
- Use headphones or earphones with a microphone for privacy and to avoid echo or background noise.
- Quit other apps using the microphone on your Mac to devote maximum resources to WhatsApp calling.
- Disable battery optimization for WhatsApp on your Android phone for stable call performance.
- Update to the latest versions of WhatsApp on your devices for best compatibility.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Calling Issues on Mac
In case you face any calling issues on WhatsApp desktop, here are some troubleshooting steps:
- Check your internet connection on both devices and reconnect if needed.
- Restart your Mac and phone to refresh the apps.
- Make sure WhatsApp is allowed access to your microphone in your Mac’s System Preferences.
- Reset the WhatsApp desktop app by signing out and logging back in.
- Uninstall and reinstall the WhatsApp desktop app if issues persist.
- Contact WhatsApp support if you have persistent calling problems.
Conclusion
Joining WhatsApp calls on your Mac is easy with the desktop app linked to your phone. With enabled calling, you can seamlessly switch ongoing WhatsApp calls between your devices. Keep both devices connected, update WhatsApp, and adjust your settings to ensure uninterrupted calling. The convenience of WhatsApp calling on your Mac makes staying in touch with friends and family easier than ever.