WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging services available today, and its developer team is constantly working to improve the user experience. Recently, a new version of the WhatsApp beta app dedicated to iOS-based devices was released, version 23.4.0.75. This latest release, as usual, previews the upcoming features and improvements the developers are working on.
WhatsApp is preparing a new feature for group calls
One of the cool features currently under development is the ability to schedule group calls. This feature was first discovered in a beta version of WhatsApp for Android a few weeks ago. And it looks like the same feature is being added to the iOS version as well.
Screenshots of the new pop-up menu show that users will be able to access a scheduling option, allowing them to select the date and time of the group call and give it a name. Once the call is scheduled, all group members will receive a notification when the call is about to start. Allowing them to join quickly.
This scheduling feature will be compatible with audio and video calls. Depending on which call button the user selects to open the context menu. It is not known when this feature will be available for all WhatsApp users. But it’s clear that the developers are working hard to bring this exciting new feature to the public.
The new group call scheduling feature in WhatsApp is a much awaited update for its users. This addition will allow users to plan ahead. And make sure everyone in the group is available at the scheduled time. The fact that this feature works on both audio and video calls is a significant plus. And it will undoubtedly improve the user experience of WhatsApp users all over the world. As always, the WhatsApp development team continues to innovate and make improvements. Ensuring it remains one of the most popular messaging platforms in the world.
This is how WhatsApp can be a good competitor to Zoom
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Although WhatsApp and Zoom are communication platforms, they serve different purposes and have different features. They are therefore not necessarily direct alternatives to each other. But with the addition of Whatsapp’s new features, the gap seems to be closing fast.
WhatsApp is primarily a messaging app that allows users to send text, voice messages, photos, and videos to individuals or groups. Although it has a video call feature, it has a limit of 32 participants in a group video call.
Zoom, on the other hand, is a video conferencing platform designed for larger group meetings and webinars. It offers features like screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, breakout rooms, and the ability to record and save meetings.
So, while WhatsApp can be a useful tool for one-on-one or small group video calls. It might not be the best option for large meetings or webinars. Zoom, on the other hand, is designed specifically for these purposes and offers a range of features to facilitate these types of interactions.
In recent times, video conferencing platforms like Zoom have gained immense popularity. Thanks to the pandemic and the rise of remote work. While Zoom has been the go-to choice for many, there are other platforms that offer similar features and benefits. One such platform is WhatsApp, a popular messaging app that has been around for quite some time.
Although WhatsApp is primarily used for messaging and sharing media files, it also has features that make it a viable alternative to Zoom. In the following points, we will explore how WhatsApp can be used as an alternative to Zoom.
- Group video calls WhatsApp has a group video call feature that allows you to connect with up to 32 people at once. This feature is similar to Zoom’s group video call feature, which allows up to 100 people to join a call. Although WhatsApp is not suitable for large team meetings or webinars, it is a great option for small team meetings or catch-up sessions.
- WhatsApp Screen Sharing also allows users to share their screens during video calls. This feature is useful when you need to give a presentation or walk someone through a process. Similarly, Zoom also allows screen sharing, making it a popular choice for virtual presentations.
- Security has always been a concern with video conferencing platforms. Zoom has come under fire in 2020 for security issues, such as “Zoombombing,” where uninvited guests join a Zoom call and disrupt the meeting. WhatsApp, on the other hand, uses end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your calls and messages are private and secure. While Zoom has since taken steps to improve its security, WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption is a valuable feature. It gives users peace of mind.
- Ease of Use One of the main advantages of using WhatsApp is its ease of use. The app is simple and intuitive, and most people are already familiar with it. This makes it a great option for those who may not be tech-savvy. Or those who prefer a simpler platform. The zoom, on the other hand, can be intimidating for some users. Especially those unfamiliar with video conferencing platforms.
- Availability Finally, WhatsApp is available on both mobile and desktop platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Zoom is also available on multiple platforms. But the desktop version can be resource-intensive and may not work well on older computers.
In conclusion, WhatsApp is a great alternative to Zoom for small team meetings, catch-up sessions, or virtual presentations. It offers features like group video calls, screen sharing, end-to-end encryption, ease of use, and availability. While Zoom may be more suited to team meetings or larger webinars, WhatsApp is a great option for those who prefer a simpler, more straightforward platform.