5 WhatsApp features that prove it is transitioning into a mainstream meeting app

WhatsApp has been around for nearly 14 years now, having launched in November 2009 as an instant messaging platform. Over the years, new features have been consistently introduced to the Meta-owned platform to upgrade the overall user experience. Perhaps the biggest change came in 2015 and 2016, when voice and video calling functionalities were added to the application.

Recently though, WhatsApp has begun transitioning from a mere chatting platform to a more mainstream meeting app. With the introduction of some features, it looks to take on popular video conferencing platforms preferred for official purposes, such as Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Zoom, and the like. The most recent such feature is the call scheduling feature.

What is the call scheduling feature and how to use it?

WABetaInfo has reported that WhatsApp may be working on a call scheduling feature, which was first seen on WhatsApp beta version 2.23.17.7. The feature allows for one to schedule calls in a group chat, the way one would on Google Meet or Microsoft Teams. One can set both, a specified date and time for the call. Additionally, they can also specify a title/topic for the meeting and also define the type of the call – whether telephonic or a video conference.

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The invite for calls can be sent as a message to the particular group it is meant for. Additionally, participants will also be reminded of the call 15 minutes prior to when it is scheduled and can join using the “Join call” button in the message. There is also a cancel option for those who may not be able to attend the call. This will make it easy for teams in offices to convene at a fixed time, on the go.

This, along with the following list of other features WhatsApp has recently introduced suited to official purposes, might just make it the next big thing in the online video-conferencing space. Read on.

Other features which allow for WhatsApp to be better used for meetings

1. Screen sharing feature

Earlier this year, WhatsApp introduced screen-sharing capabilities for when you’re on video calls. This feature allows for one to share everything from documents, Excel sheets, slide decks, and more, with their colleagues. To access the same, all one needs to do is tap on the “Share” icon during video calls.

Similar to Teams, Google Meet as well as Zoom, users can also choose whether they want to share only a specific app or their entire screen, to ensure other confidential data remains secure. Though initially introduced for Android devices, WhatsApp has also announced that it will roll out the feature for their iOS desktop apps in a phased manner.

2. Landscape mode support

In tandem with the screen-sharing feature, WhatsApp has also introduced support for landscape mode during video calls on smartphones. This feature ensures that meetings can be conducted on the go with ease, and also ensures better visibility of the documents being shared since portrait mode could potentially distort one’s view. This feature ensures that WhatsApp can be used for meetings when working in the hybrid mode, and that work goes on unhindered when one doesn’t have access to their laptops/desktops.

3. Multiple accounts on the same smartphone

WhatsApp recently introduced this feature, which allows users to set up two separate WhatsApp accounts on the same app. Mind you, this has been introduced in the beta version of the app. Using this function, users will now be able to switch between accounts as and when required, allowing them to stay organised, keeping personal and official communication separate. In addition to staying organised, this also allows users to stay focused on work better during office hours, and also take a break from work in their free time.

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4. Admin review for groups

Earlier this month, WhatsApp also introduced an admin review feature for groups. This allows participants in a group to submit messages they may have concerns with, for review to group admins. Depending on the review, an admin has the authority to delete the message, and also remove the participant who sent the same from the group, should they choose to do so. This ensures that messages with false, or inaccurate information can be flagged without losing time in groups, such that work remains uninhibited.

It’s clear from the above features that WhatsApp wants to go beyond just being a platform to chat or call your friends and loved ones. With these features, WhatsApp wants to be taken seriously as an app that can be used during work and leisure time.