iPhone users can now switch to video during voice calls on WhatsApp: Here’s how it works

You can now also see unread messages on group chats by tapping on the ‘@’ mention button. Here’s how the two new features work.

By: MARCIA SEKHOSE
| Updated on: Feb 12 2018, 13:04 IST
WhatsApp has also rolled out its UPI-based payments feature for iOS users
WhatsApp has also rolled out its UPI-based payments feature for iOS users (Reuters)

After rolling out the payment feature, WhatsApp has now released two new important features for its users.

These include the ability to switch between voice and video call on WhatsApp, and to see unread messages on group chats by tapping on the '@' mention button.

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The new update is currently available on iOS only, and hasn't been rolled out for Android devices as yet.

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How to get started

You will first need to update your WhatsApp on iOS to the latest version to get the new features.

Once you make a voice call to any of your contacts on WhatsApp, you will see the video icon located at the centre. Once the other user answers your voice call, you can tap on the said icon to switch to a video call.

WhatsApp now allows users on iOS to switch between voice and video call
WhatsApp now allows users on iOS to switch between voice and video call (Marcia Sekhose)
image caption
WhatsApp now allows users on iOS to switch between voice and video call (Marcia Sekhose)

If other user is trying to switch to a video call from a voice call, you'll get the request and you can accept accordingly.

WhatsApp's voice and video calls are known to be well optimised for slower networks.With the merging of voice and video into one, you can easily switch between the two depending on your connectivity status.

Keep in mind that only if the other user also has their WhatsApp updated with the new feature you'll be able to use it. While the 'switch to video' option will be visible, it'll show a popup whether the recipient has the feature enabled or not.

Mention button

WhatsApp's next small update is for the '@' mention button on group chats. Using this symbol you can tag your group members on chats.

Now, WhatsApp on iOS allows users to tap on this symbol to quickly scroll and view unread messages on the group chat. Here, you will see unread messages where you were replied to or mentioned.

Recently, WhatsApp introduced a major update to users in India. Select users started seeing WhatsApp's long rumoured payment feature on the app. WhatsApp's UPI-based payments feature is also available on iOS now.

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First Published Date: 12 Feb, 12:59 IST
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