Billions of WhatsApp users are about to receive a significant upgrade, but it has nothing to do with sending messages. Instead, Meta is improving voice and video calling with new ways to stay connected, smarter features and better call quality. Calling through WhatsApp has become increasingly popular in recent years, making these latest additions welcome news for anyone who regularly uses the service.

“Whether you’re on your phone, at your desk, or switching between the two, calling on WhatsApp just works, privately and simply,” WhatsApp said in a message sent to Express.co.uk.

“Today, we are bringing new features to make that easier no matter where you are or what device you’re on.”

The biggest addition is Web Calling. Once the feature rolls out, users will be able to make and receive one-to-one and group voice and video calls directly through WhatsApp Web, with no desktop app required.

“Whether you’re a college student on a shared computer, using a work laptop that doesn’t allow app downloads, or simply prefer your browser, you can jump on a call without leaving the browser you’re already on,” WhatsApp explained.

Users will also have access to features already available on mobile and desktop, including screen sharing, emoji reactions and a dedicated Calls tab showing recent calls and favourites.

WhatsApp is also introducing Call Transfer, allowing users to move an active group call from one device to another without hanging up. For example, you can start a call on your phone and seamlessly continue it on your laptop.

Another new addition is Waiting Room, giving hosts greater control over who joins group calls.

When creating a call link, organisers can enable a “Require approval to join” option. Anyone using that link will be placed in a waiting room until they’re approved by the host.

“We’ve introduced Waiting Room,” WhatsApp said.

“When you create a WhatsApp call link with ‘Require approval to join’ enabled, participants will enter a waiting room until you’re ready to let them in.”

The final two upgrades will help to boost the quality of phone and video calls.

QuickHD is designed to improve the video experience at the start of a call. With QuickHD, users can now enjoy high-definition video immediately in the very first few seconds of the call.

Then there’s Noise Suppression, which helps remove background noise. This means voices are heard more clearly even in loud or busy environments. It can be managed at any time in in-call settings.

WhatsApp says these features are rolling out gradually and will be available to everyone soon.