NEW YORK: WhatsApp calling feature is now rolling out to Android users. To get the feature, Android users need to update the app to the latest version and then find out a friend who already has the feature.
If someone who already has the WhatsApp calling feature tries to call a user who has the older version of the app, the message tells the user that the app needs to be updated.
Important update: A lot of users who have got the call feature in their WhatsApp can no longer pass it on to others. It seems that WhatsApp was testing the feature and had opened it for limited time. Now it is no longer working. Though, those who have got the feature can use to call others who have the latest app.
While the calling feature is available in several other instant messaging apps, with nearly 600 million users WhatsApp is in a position to change the telecom industry with this feature.
The version of WhatsApp that supports calling is 2.11.528. Currently, it is not clear if Android Lollipop is required for the feature or not. Earlier, when WhatsApp was testing this feature in a limited way, it worked only on Android phones running the Lollipop.
The WhatsApp calling feature adds a new tab called calls into the app window. Under this tab, call history will be stored. Also, the feature adds a call icon on top of a chat window. Users tried the feature on the Google nexus 5 phone. Although it also seems to have a bug that is stopping a few users from picking up the incoming call.
As it happens in other messaging apps, for the calls made using WhatsApp users will be charged only for the data consumption. They will not be charged for “call charges” that they have to pay for the regular calls.
Update 1: The WhatsApp calling feature doesn’t require Android Lollipop. It also works on Android KitKat.
Update 2: While calling feature is available with WhatsApp Version 2.11.528, it is buggy. For the better experience, use the Version 2.11.531, which is available directly from WhatsApp website.
