WhatsApp Rolls Out New Calling Tools Including Scheduling and Reactions

WhatsApp, one of the world’s most widely used instant messaging platforms, continues to enhance its user experience for over three billion active users globally. With constant feature rollouts, the platform aims to stay ahead in the competitive communication space.

Recently, WhatsApp introduced a set of powerful upgrades for its calling service, including call scheduling, reactions, and better group call management. These updates are designed to make voice and video calling on WhatsApp more organized, interactive, and engaging.

WhatsApp Introduces Call Scheduling

One of the most significant updates is call scheduling, a feature that directly positions WhatsApp as a stronger competitor to Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom.

• With this feature, users can now plan a group call in advance instead of starting one spontaneously.

• To schedule a call, users simply need to tap the ‘+’ button in the Calls tab and select “Schedule call”.

• Once scheduled, participants receive an invitation with details, including a call link that can be shared or added to personal calendars.

• The Calls tab will now display upcoming calls, allowing users to manage schedules effectively.

• Participants also receive timely notifications before the call begins, ensuring better attendance and preparedness.

• The call creator will be alerted whenever someone joins the session.

This feature brings WhatsApp closer to becoming a professional and personal communication hub, bridging the gap between casual chats and organized virtual meetings.

Reactions and Hand-Raise Feature on Group Calls

Alongside scheduling, WhatsApp has introduced new ways for users to interact during group calls.

• Users can now “raise their hand” during a call, signaling that they wish to speak without interrupting the flow of conversation.

• Additionally, WhatsApp now supports real-time reactions on calls, allowing participants to share emotions through quick emoji responses.

These features make group calls more structured and expressive, enhancing participation and ensuring smoother communication—especially in large groups where multiple people may want to contribute.

Competing With Rival Platforms

The new upgrades highlight WhatsApp’s ongoing strategy of adopting popular features from competing platforms.

• Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has previously followed a similar approach with its other apps like Instagram, which introduced Reposts and Instagram Maps, already seen on X (formerly Twitter) and Snapchat.

• Similarly, the call scheduling and reactions added to WhatsApp are inspired by functionalities already present on Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.

By replicating and refining these widely used features, WhatsApp ensures that users don’t need to leave the app for certain communication needs, making it a one-stop solution for both personal and professional conversations.

Why These Features Matter

The introduction of call scheduling and expressive tools reflects the changing nature of communication in the digital age:

• Remote work and hybrid meetings have made scheduling calls essential.

• Interactive group calls are no longer just for business; families, friends, and communities also want structured and fun ways to connect.

• With these features, WhatsApp is catering to a wider audience, ranging from students and professionals to casual users.

This positions WhatsApp as more than just a messaging app—it is evolving into a comprehensive communication platform.

Conclusion

The latest upgrades, including call scheduling, hand-raise, and reactions, mark a major step forward for WhatsApp’s calling ecosystem. By adopting features from its rivals and tailoring them for its massive user base, Meta-owned WhatsApp ensures it stays relevant in both personal and professional communication spaces.

Whether it’s planning a virtual family gathering, hosting a team meeting, or staying connected with friends across the globe, WhatsApp’s new tools make calls more organized, interactive, and user-friendly.