WhatsApp is now allowing everyone to make video calls

Johannesburg - A few lucky users had a taste of WhatsApp’s video calling feature - but on Tuesday it was announced that all users would now be able to make use of the feature. 

The feature that is similar to Skype, Google’s Duo and FaceTime will be rolled out to over one billion Android, iOS and Windows users allowing face-to-face calling. 

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“Today we’re excited to announce the next step in our efforts to connect people – WhatsApp video calling,” the statement said. 

“We’re introducing this feature because we know that sometimes voice and text just aren’t enough. There’s no substitute for watching your grandchild take her first steps, or seeing your daughter’s face while she’s studying abroad.”

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Once the application is updated on the devices of both the user and receiving user, people will be able to connect via video.  

Similar to WhatsApp’s over-the-top (OTT) voice-over-internet-protocol (Voip), which threw a spanner in the works for mobile networks - the instant messenger’s video calling function can be accessed using the same telephone icon for voice calls - once tapped, a pop-up option for voice calls or video calls opens.

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“Over the years we’ve received many requests from our users for video calling, and we’re excited to finally offer this feature to the world,” the statement read.

While not all devices have immediate access to the feature - the service is expected to be rolled out with a new update in weeks to come.

@KyleVenktess on Twitter.