WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the handy features it offers is the ability to make video calls with your contacts. While you can do a one-on-one video call easily, WhatsApp also gives you the option to add a third person to the call, making it a 3 way video call. This can be useful for when you want to have a group conversation over video.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps to make a 3 way video call on Whatsapp using both iOS and Android devices. We will also provide tips to ensure your 3 way video call experience goes smoothly.
Prerequisites for a 3 Way WhatsApp Video Call
Before you can start a 3 way video call on WhatsApp, there are some prerequisites:
- All participants should have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on their phones
- All participants need to have a good WiFi or mobile data connection
- All participants need to have the video calling feature enabled in WhatsApp settings
- For iPhones, iOS 10+ is required. For Android, Android 4.1+ is needed
Ensure these requirements are met before attempting a 3 way video call. Having an outdated version of the app, slow internet speed, or the video calling disabled can prevent the call from connecting properly.
How to Start a 3 Way WhatsApp Video Call on iPhone
Follow these steps to start a 3 way video call if you and the other participants are using iPhones:
- Open a one-on-one WhatsApp video call with one of your contacts
- Once connected to the first contact, tap on the Add Participant icon in the top right (it looks like a person with a plus symbol)
- This will open up your contacts list. Tap on the second contact you want to add to the video call.
- The call invitation will be sent to that contact. If they accept it, all 3 of you will be connected in a group video call.
Here are some visual guides to help you through the process:
As you can see, initiating a 3 way video call from an iPhone is very simple. Just start with a one-on-one call, then tap to add the second participant.
How to Start a 3 Way WhatsApp Video Call on Android
If you and the other participants are Android users, follow these steps:
- Open a one-on-one WhatsApp video call with a contact
- Once connected, tap on the Add Participant icon in the top right (person icon with a plus symbol)
- Select the second contact to invite to the video call from your contacts list
- This will send them a call invitation. When they accept, the video call will be merged
Here is a visual guide for the process on Android phones:
As you can see, the process is very similar to iPhone. The only difference is the look of the icons and WhatsApp interface.
Tips for a Smooth 3 Way WhatsApp Video Call
To ensure your 3 way video call experience is seamless, keep these tips in mind:
- Confirm that all participants have a stable internet connection, preferably over WiFi
- Make sure all phones are charged or plugged into a charger to avoid battery draining out mid-call
- Speak in turns to avoid crosstalk
- Mute your mic if you are not speaking to minimize background noise
- Adjust your camera well-lit environment so you are visible to other participants
- Use headphones for clearer audio and to avoid echo or feedback
- If the call quality is poor, try turning off your video temporarily
Following these tips will prevent common issues like lag, echo, background noise and connectivity problems during your 3 way call.
Troubleshooting 3 Way WhatsApp Video Calls
Despite the tips, you may still face some technical difficulties while on a 3 way WhatsApp call. Here are some troubleshooting steps:
Problem: Call quality is laggy or pixilated
- Switch from WiFi to mobile data or vice versa if one has poor connectivity
- Move closer to your WiFi router to improve signal strength
- Turn off video and use only audio calling temporarily
Problem: There is echo or background noise
- Ask participants to mute themselves when not speaking
- Use headphones instead of loudspeaker mode
- Move to a quieter location if outdoors or in a noisy setting
Problem: Can’t add third participant to call
- Update the WhatsApp app if you don’t see the add participant option
- Check if the third participant has video calling enabled and stable connection
- Restart your phone and try again
Following these troubleshooting tips should help resolve common issues you may face during 3 way video calls.
WhatsApp 3 Way Video Call Limitations
While WhatsApp does offer 3 way video calling, there are some limitations to be aware of:
- Only 3 participants max – you cannot add more people beyond that
- No conference calling feature yet – it has to be initiated like a regular call
- No call recording option
- No dial-in option – all participants need WhatsApp installed
These limitations may make WhatsApp 3 way calling inconvenient for larger meetings or calls. For those scenarios, dedicated conferencing apps like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet may be better options to consider.
Conclusion
That sums up the main steps and tips you need to successfully make a 3 way video call using WhatsApp! Here are some key takeaways:
- Start a one-on-one video call first, then use the add participant icon to invite a third person
- Ensure all participants have strong connectivity, updated app version, and video calling enabled
- Use WiFi whenever possible and follow other tips to optimize call quality
- Troubleshoot issues like lag, echo or adding participants using the steps provided
- Remember WhatsApp currently supports only up to 3 people in one video call
With these handy instructions, you and your friends can easily have 3 way video calls on WhatsApp for enhanced group conversations. As the platform continues improving, we can expect more advanced conference calling features down the road as well.
| Platform | Steps to Start 3 Way Call |
|---|---|
| iPhone |
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| Android |
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| Issue | Troubleshooting Tips |
|---|---|
| Laggy or pixilated video |
|
| Echo or background noise |
|
| Can’t add 3rd participant |
|