WhatsApp's Windows Phone app finally comes with voice calling with the release of the app's latest version 2.12.60.0 on Tuesday.
In addition to WhatsApp Calling, users can now send audio files through the popular instant messaging client for smartphones installed with Windows 8.1. The app now features Group Chat and WhatsApp Web as well, allowing users to send and receive WhatsApp messages through a desktop browser.
The new WhatsApp for Windows Phone integrates effortlessly with the phone's existing browsers. Users can easily exchange contacts, share locations, set customized wallpapers, send messages to multiple contacts at once and more with the updated app.
With WhatsApp, users are always logged in the app so one does not miss any messages. Even if one's smartphone is off or in case of missed notifications, WhatsApp saves recent messages which will be immediately on display the next time the app opens.
After Facebook acquired WhatsApp for more than $20 billion, WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum announced back in April 2014 that the app would soon add voice services to its features. Beta testers initially tried WhatsApp Calling late last month and, after what seemed like a long and winding road to the feature's beta launch,
Windows Phone WhatsApp users can now use VoIP via 4G/3G/2G/EDGE or Wi-Fi to contact family and friends both locally and internationally. Be reminded though that even if one cellular plan's voice minutes will not be consumed with WhatsApp Calling or messaging, data charges may still apply. Users cannot access 911 and other emergency service numbers through WhatsApp as well.
To download the latest version of WhatsApp, head on to the Windows Phone website. The app will consume less than 20 MB of storage.
WhatsApp developers may also send future updates to fine-tune the overall service, so it is definitely a work in progress.
