April 29, 2025 – WhatsApp is set to revolutionize its web client by introducing voice and video calling capabilities, allowing users to make calls directly from their browsers without relying on the mobile app. This long-awaited feature, currently in development, aims to streamline communication for millions of users worldwide, aligning WhatsApp with the growing demand for seamless digital connectivity solutions. The update reflects WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance its platform, especially for professionals and remote workers who rely on web-based tools for collaboration.

The new feature, discovered by WABetaInfo, marks a significant departure from the current limitations of WhatsApp Web, which allows messaging and media sharing but lacks direct calling functionality. Users have long been able to make voice and video calls through WhatsApp’s native desktop apps for Windows and macOS, but browser-based calling has remained unavailable—until now. The update will enable users to place calls directly from browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Edge, offering a more unified experience across devices. This development comes at a time when WhatsApp is also rolling out other advanced features, such as enhanced privacy controls, to meet evolving user needs.

Photo: WABetaInfo

The introduction of voice and video calling to WhatsApp Web is expected to simplify workflows for users who prefer browser-based communication. A report from The Verge noted that WhatsApp has already implemented a streamlined call button in its mobile app’s beta version, replacing separate voice and video call buttons with a single icon that offers both options. This design change is likely to carry over to the web client, making it easier for users to initiate calls from individual or group chats. The feature will also allow users to switch between call types during conversations and manage calls directly from the browser, a functionality that could enhance productivity for remote teams and casual users alike.

Key Details and Expected Impact

Here’s a breakdown of the upcoming WhatsApp Web feature:

• Feature Overview: Voice and video calling directly from the web client, without needing the mobile app.
• Design: A streamlined call button for individual and group chats, offering both voice and video options.
• Compatibility: Expected to support major browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Edge.
• Rollout: Currently in development, with a release anticipated in the coming months.

The ability to make calls without the mobile app marks a significant upgrade for WhatsApp Web. It was reported that this update could allow users to access WhatsApp Web independently of their phones, a feature previously limited by the platform’s reliance on mobile connectivity. This change aligns with WhatsApp’s earlier multi-device beta, which enabled users to use the app on up to four devices without keeping their phone online. However, the web client’s calling feature will still require users to grant browser access to their microphone and camera, ensuring a seamless yet secure experience, a priority also evident in WhatsApp’s recent privacy enhancements.

The update is particularly timely given the rise in remote work and digital communication, trends that have accelerated since the pandemic. WhatsApp Web’s new calling feature could make it a more viable alternative to platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams for quick voice or video calls, especially for users already within the WhatsApp ecosystem. It was reported that the feature might also support group calls, allowing teams to collaborate directly from their browsers without switching platforms. This move could strengthen WhatsApp’s position in the competitive messaging market, where it already boasts over 2 billion users globally.

The development of this feature also highlights WhatsApp’s broader strategy to enhance its web platform. Recent updates to WhatsApp Web, such as a redesigned interface, have improved its usability, but the lack of calling capabilities has been a notable gap. By addressing this, WhatsApp aims to offer a more consistent experience across its mobile, desktop, and web versions, ensuring users can stay connected regardless of the device they use. This focus on cross-platform functionality mirrors trends in other tech sectors, such as AI-driven communication tools, where seamless integration is key to user satisfaction.

While the exact rollout date remains unconfirmed, the feature is expected to launch in the coming months, following WhatsApp’s typical beta testing phase. Early reports suggest that users may be able to initiate calls from the sidebar or directly within chats, with options to switch between voice and video during conversations. WhatsApp is likely to ensure end-to-end encryption for these calls, maintaining its commitment to security, a critical factor for users concerned about privacy in digital communication.

The introduction of voice and video calling to WhatsApp Web is a game-changer, offering users greater flexibility and convenience in how they connect. As WhatsApp continues to evolve, this update could redefine its role in both personal and professional communication, making it a more versatile tool for a global audience. The coming months will reveal how users adopt this feature and whether it can truly bridge the gap between mobile and web experiences. What’s your take on WhatsApp Web’s upcoming calling feature? Will it change how you use the platform? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s discuss the future of digital communication.

April 27, 2025, Cupertino, California – Apple is making significant strides toward launching its long-rumored smart glasses, with recent reports indicating that the company is actively developing a device that could integrate its Apple Intelligence technology. The project, which has been in development for years, aims to compete with existing smart glasses like Meta’s Ray-Ban collaboration while offering a sleek, iPhone-powered design that aligns with Apple’s ecosystem. As wearable technology continues to evolve, Apple’s entry into this space could redefine how users interact with augmented reality (AR) and AI in their daily lives.

According to 9to5Mac, Apple’s smart glasses project is moving closer to reality, with the company focusing on a device that relies on the iPhone for processing power, similar to the original Apple Watch. This approach minimizes the need for bulky hardware, allowing for a lightweight design that prioritizes comfort and style. The glasses are expected to feature Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI platform, which could enable features like real-time language translation, navigation overlays, and contextual notifications. This integration aligns with Apple’s broader AI strategy, as seen in Apple’s use of differential privacy to train its AI models while protecting user data.

The smart glasses are also expected to include advanced displays and sensors, as reported by WCCFTech. Apple is reportedly working on micro-LED displays to deliver high-quality visuals for AR experiences, such as displaying directions or notifications directly in the user’s field of view. Additionally, the glasses may incorporate cameras and microphones to support voice commands via Siri, which has been revamped with Apple Intelligence to handle more complex queries. This could make the glasses a seamless extension of the iPhone, much like how Google’s Gemini app uses lock screen widgets to enhance accessibility on iOS devices.

However, Apple faces significant challenges in bringing this product to market. Tom’s Guide highlights that Meta has a head start with its Ray-Ban smart glasses, which have gained popularity for their AI features and sleek design. Apple’s glasses will need to overcome hurdles like battery life, as shrinking the device means smaller batteries with limited capacity. To address this, Apple is exploring offloading processing to the iPhone, which could extend battery life while maintaining performance. This strategy mirrors trends in wearable tech, such as Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot, which relies on external power sources for complex tasks like breakdancing.

Expected Features of Apple Smart Glasses

Here’s a breakdown of the anticipated features:

• Lightweight design powered by iPhone processing.
• Apple Intelligence integration for real-time AR features.
• Micro-LED displays for high-quality visuals.
• Cameras and microphones for Siri voice commands.
• Potential launch timeline of 2027 or later.

Despite the progress, Apple’s smart glasses are not expected to launch imminently. NewsBytes reports that the device may not hit the market until 2027, as Apple continues to refine the technology. The company is also working on underlying components like screens and silicon to ensure the glasses meet its high standards for design and functionality. This timeline aligns with Apple’s cautious approach to new product categories, as seen with the iPhone 17 Air mockups, which took years to develop before unveiling.

The smart glasses project reflects Apple’s broader vision for wearable technology, building on the success of the Apple Watch and AirPods. By integrating Apple Intelligence, the glasses could offer a seamless experience within Apple’s ecosystem, potentially setting a new standard for AR devices. However, Apple will need to address privacy concerns, a key focus for the company, especially as competitors like Meta face backlash over AI safety issues. As Apple continues to develop this technology, the tech world eagerly awaits a product that could transform how we interact with the digital world.

What do you think about Apple’s smart glasses project? Will it live up to the hype, or will Meta maintain its lead in the AR space? Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more updates on Apple’s wearable ambitions.