WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the key features of WhatsApp is the ability to make video calls, both one-on-one and in groups. Group video calling allows up to 8 participants to join a video call at once. This can be a fun and convenient way to stay connected with family, friends, colleagues, and more.
Requirements for WhatsApp group video calls
To make a WhatsApp group video call, there are a few requirements:
- All participants must have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on their device
- All participants must have an active internet connection
- For optimal performance, all participants should be using WiFi if possible
- The group chat must have at least 3 participants to start a video call
- All participants’ devices must have a front-facing camera
As long as these requirements are met, up to 8 people can join a WhatsApp group video call at once. Keep reading to learn the step-by-step process for starting and joining a group video call.
Starting a group video call
Starting a group video call on WhatsApp is easy. Just follow these steps:
- Open the WhatsApp group chat you want to video call
- Tap the video call icon in the top right (it looks like a camera icon)
- Confirm the participants you want to call by checking the boxes next to their names
- Tap the video call button at the bottom to start the call
Once you tap to start the call, WhatsApp will begin ringing the other participants. As people answer, their video windows will pop up on your screen. The call will continue ringing unanswered participants until someone rejects the call or the call times out after 20 rings.
Joining a group video call
When someone else starts a WhatsApp group video call, you’ll get a notification inviting you to join. Here’s how to join a call:
- When you get a group video call notification, tap the notification or open WhatsApp
- You’ll see options to accept the video call or reject it
- Tap the green Accept button to join the video call
- Your video will connect and you’ll join the call in progress
That’s all there is to it! You’ll now be able to chat face-to-face with up to 7 other people on the group video call.
Tips for WhatsApp group video calls
Here are some tips to ensure your WhatsApp group video call experience is smooth and successful:
- Make sure you have a strong WiFi or cellular connection
- Minimize background noise by muting yourself when not speaking
- Have proper lighting so others can see you clearly
- Use headphones to avoid echo or feedback sounds
- Speak clearly and pause to allow for delays in transmission
- Adjust your camera angle so your full face is visible
Group video call features
WhatsApp provides several useful features during group video calls:
- Mute/unmute – Mute your mic when not speaking to minimize background noise
- Video on/off – Turn your camera off if you need privacy during the call
- Screen share – Share your screen to showcase photos, documents, designs, and more
- Chat – Open the group chat window to send text messages
- Add participant – Add up to 7 more people to the call if there’s room
- Record call – Record the video call to view later (with participants’ consent)
Take advantage of these features for productive and engaging WhatsApp group video calls.
Troubleshooting group video calls
In some cases, you may encounter issues when trying to use WhatsApp group video calling. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Can’t start call | Confirm you have at least 3 participants in the chat. Update WhatsApp. Check your internet connection. |
| Call quality is poor | Move closer to your WiFi router, switch to a stronger cellular network, or reduce video quality in settings. |
| Call disconnects | An incoming call or poor network connection may cause a call to end unexpectedly. Try rejoining the call. |
| Can’t hear other participants | Increase volume, unmute them, or have them check their mic settings. |
Follow up with other participants directly if the issues persist. Be patient as WhatsApp is still improving group video call reliability and performance.
Conclusion
WhatsApp group video calling offers a convenient way to connect multiple people face-to-face. By starting a video call from any group chat with at least 3 participants, up to 8 people can join a group video call and chat for as long as they want. With useful features like screen sharing, chat, and call recording, WhatsApp group video calls are great for both social and professional situations. Follow the tips in this article to ensure you have the best group video calling experience on WhatsApp.