WhatsApp video calling has been rumored for quite some time, and it seems that it's now in beta testing for Android users.
Rumors of a video calling feature gracing WhatsApp have been making rounds for quite some time now. Tech Times reported in January that WhatsApp was looking to enable video calls, and it's apparently getting closer to a release.
Screenshots have emerged recently, suggesting that WhatsApp could turn on video calling with its next major update. Another report last week also revealed some more exciting features set to arrive along with video calls, and the leaks keep piling up.
Now, a pair of newly leaked images shows that WhatsApp has started beta testing its video calling feature on Android. As a reminder, WhatsApp launched its beta testing program for Android users in February, making it easier to test new features before they're ready to roll out to the general public.
The latest version of the beta (v2.16.80) now displays two options when attempting to call a contact via WhatsApp. One allows you to make regular voice calls, while the other should flip the switch for video calls.
According to FoneArena, a few users in some countries can already make WhatsApp video calls with this beta, but others still get a message that video calling is not yet available. This means that the feature is not active yet for all beta testers, but could go live for more users soon enough.
The voice calling feature was similarly available only to some users at first, but it gradually rolled out to everyone later on.
If the beta tests go smoothly and all kinks are ironed out quickly, it may not be long until WhatsApp video calling actually rolls out as an update to all Android users, and not just to those enrolled in the beta program.
WhatsApp has been quite busy updating its platform recently. Just last week it launched a native desktop app for Windows and Mac, and it's also rumored to add QR codes and NFC tags for group invites.
While it's unclear when those codes and tags will become available, at least the video calling feature is edging closer to release. If you're a WhatsApp beta tester and have tried out video calls, drop by our comment section below and tell us about your experience.
