New Tools for a More Organized Calling Experience
WhatsApp has unveiled a set of new features aimed at improving the group calling experience for its global user base. The most significant addition is the call scheduling option, allowing users to arrange group calls in advance.
According to Meta, this feature is designed to make virtual meetings on WhatsApp more convenient and structured, particularly for professional and community groups that rely on the platform for coordination.
How the Call Scheduling Feature Works
To schedule a call, users need to open the Calls tab in WhatsApp and tap the plus (+) button. They can then select the “Schedule Call” option.
Once a call is scheduled, users can invite participants directly from their contact list. A shareable call link can also be generated and added to calendar applications for better time management.
When the scheduled time arrives, all invited participants will receive a notification alert, ensuring they can join promptly. This feature is expected to reduce missed calls and confusion about meeting times.
Streamlined Management of Contacts and Call Links
In addition to scheduling, WhatsApp has introduced improvements to help users manage contacts and call links more effectively within the Calls tab. These updates aim to simplify navigation for users who frequently engage in group calls.
By keeping call links and contact lists organized in one place, the platform hopes to make group communication more efficient and less time-consuming.
Additional Group Call Features
Alongside scheduling, WhatsApp has rolled out other tools to improve interaction during live calls.
Raise Your Hand
The new “Raise Your Hand” option allows participants to signal when they wish to speak. This feature, already familiar to users of platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, helps maintain order in large group calls and ensures that everyone has an opportunity to contribute.
Emoji Reactions
Participants can now use emoji reactions during calls to express agreement, appreciation, or other sentiments without interrupting the conversation. This makes calls more engaging and enables quick, non-verbal feedback.
Why These Updates Matter
WhatsApp remains one of the world’s most popular messaging applications, with over two billion users globally. In recent years, the platform has been expanding its voice and video call capabilities to compete with dedicated conferencing tools.
The addition of scheduling and interactive features signals Meta’s intention to position WhatsApp as not only a casual messaging app but also a reliable platform for remote collaboration, online events, and community discussions. Recently, the platform also introduced its ‘Motion Photo’ feature, turning still images into short, dynamic clips for a richer sharing experience.
These updates follow a broader trend in communication apps, where features traditionally associated with workplace tools are being integrated into consumer platforms. This reflects the growing overlap between personal and professional communication needs, especially in the era of remote work and global connectivity.
Rollout and Availability
Meta has indicated that the new group call features will be gradually rolled out worldwide in the coming weeks. Users are advised to update to the latest version of WhatsApp to access them.
While the call scheduling function is expected to be particularly useful for professional teams and large communities, the Raise Your Hand and emoji reaction features also cater to casual group chats, family calls, and social gatherings.
With these changes, WhatsApp is reinforcing its role as a versatile communication hub — one that bridges the gap between informal chats and organized virtual meetings.
