WhatsApp has begun rolling out a big increase to its group call limit that will make it easier to keep in touch with colleagues and loved ones while stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s now possible to have voice and video calls with up to eight people. The change comes just days after code hinting at a new limit was spotted in an early WhatsApp beta release.
WhatsApp allowed just four people to partake in group voice and video calls until now. But with a significant increase in demand for video conferencing platforms, there’s never been a better time to increase it.
The new limit still pales in comparison to those of services like Skype and Facebook Messenger, which support up to 50 people on a single call. However, it’s a welcome change for WhatsApp’s 2 billion users.
WhatsApp increases group call limit
In the latest WhatsApp release, it’s possible for up to eight people to join the same voice or video call, WABetaInfo reports. The change is rolling out to users on both Android and iOS.
All users must be running the latest version of WhatsApp — version 2.20.133 on Android and 2.20.40.25 on iOS — otherwise it won’t work.
This update is rolling out gradually to all users, so although some might see it already, others might have to wait a few days to get it. Keep an eye on the App Store for new WhatsApp updates.
WhatsApp changes during COVID-19
This is one of a number of changes WhatsApp is making to help make its platform even more useful during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Others include partnerships with trusted organizations, government, and health ministries who are providing accurate pandemic information, and tighter restrictions on message forwarding.
One thing we are yet to see, which might help some WhatsApp users during this time, is the ability to use WhatsApp on multiple devices simultaneously — and an official WhatsApp client for iPad.
These are things the platform is said to be working on, but they are yet to come to fruition.
