Not long after availing the very handy platform of doing your WhatsApp on desktops (see my blog here), Whatsapp now let you place calls through internet (charging via data/WiFi, and not voice call- which would be useful if calling overseas). Well, while this is not a novel thing as it has been in place for Skype, Wechat, etc, with so many people using WhatsApp all the time, it’s very handy for them just by clicking a button to call instead of typing long messages. I’m using it and it’s quite handy, instant and quality is clear. It’s now available for both Android and iPhone users. Installation for Android users involves only a few steps as below, for iPhone users please refer to my other blog here:..
- If your WhatsApp front page already shows 3 tabs (CALLS | CHATS |CONTACTS) at the top, then you’re already updated to the latest version capable of this feature (version 2.12.19). You can check this by under Settings/ Help/ About. But if yours version is older (e.g. latest version available in Google Play is only 2.12.5), then read on..
- NB- there’s NO need for others to call you with their Call-enabled phone first to activate yours as many on site/newspaper said, if you use my simple method below
- On your Android phone (NOT on your computer) browser (e.g. Chrome), go to this site – www.whatsapp.com/android/
- Click the green “Download Now” button (you can also check the version shown below this button)
- Wait until download is complete as shown on the notification bar at the top of your phone (after the downward arrow stops flashing)
- Pull down the top menu, find the downloaded item (amongst the Notifications), click it to install
Now you should see the 3 tabs (1. & photo above) when you reopen WhatsApp. To call anyone via WhatsApp, just go to/tab the person under WhatsApp and tab the “Phone” icon at the top Right hand corner (next to the usual “Attach” paper clip icon – see screen capture above). Easy and handy- isn’t it. Try it. The 3 Tabs act as notifications (e.g. No. of unopened “CHATS”, etc) for you click and go to see them. Note that if someone calls you using WhatsApp, the call would not be forwarded to another phone even if you set forwarding on.