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WhatsApp started as a simple text messaging app that allowed users to stay connected via text without paying for SMS. Over the years, it has evolved and added multiple ways for users to be more expressive while sharing messages. It now supports sharing media files, audio messages, GIFs, stickers, and recently added avatars. Animated avatars have been in beta testing for a few weeks and WhatsApp is now working on adding them to video calls.
WhatsApp Video Calls Using Avatars
A new WhatsApp beta for Android (version 2.23.19.4) was spotted with the ability to use avatars for video calls. This feature is currently available only to select beta testers who are welcomed with a banner titled “Using your avatars on calls.” The banner explains that avatars during video calls will mimic users’ facial expressions and movements in real time, similar to how Apple’s Memojis work during FaceTime video calls. This feature adds a fun and expressive element to video calls, and also allows users to maintain their privacy by not showing their face.
The banner also assures users that all video calls will continue to be end-to-end encrypted even when avatars are used. Users can switch back to a normal video call at any time by selecting the “Switch to Avatar” option. WhatsApp has been reported to be working on avatar video calls since last year, and now that Meta has released support for avatar video calls on Instagram and Messenger, it is likely that WhatsApp will also receive this feature.
Last week, WhatsApp Channels, a new feature that allows people, teams, and organizations to share the latest information with their followers, had a wider global release. It is now available in over 150 countries, including India. Only the channel admin can send messages, and followers can only react to those messages. Some popular WhatsApp Channels in India include those from the Indian Cricket Team, Netflix, Katrina Kaif, Diljit Dosanjh, Vijay Devarakonda, and Akshay Kumar.
The team is also reportedly working on third-party chat interoperability, which would allow users on other chat apps to message WhatsApp users without creating a new WhatsApp account. This development is in response to the European Union’s recently passed Digital Markets Act (DMA). Details about the availability of this feature worldwide are still unknown, but we will provide updates as more information emerges.