WhatsApp is continuing its gradual evolution into a more work-friendly communication tool, rolling out a set of updates aimed at improving the group calling experience. The most notable addition is the ability to schedule group calls—a feature long available on enterprise platforms like Zoom and Google Meet, but new to WhatsApp’s ecosystem.
With the latest update, users can now schedule WhatsApp group calls directly from the Calls tab. By tapping the “+” icon and selecting “Schedule call,” users can set up future meetings and invite participants in advance. These scheduled calls are saved in the same tab, where attendees can view upcoming calls, see who’s invited, and access call links. WhatsApp also allows users to sync call details with their calendar apps, offering a smoother workflow for users who rely on scheduling tools.
Participants will receive an alert when the meeting is about to begin, and link creators will get a notification when someone joins the call—an added layer of visibility that helps manage team interactions more effectively.
Alongside scheduling, WhatsApp is introducing two additional features commonly found in professional video calling platforms: a “raise your hand” option and emoji reactions during calls. The raise hand feature allows participants to signal when they want to speak, a practical solution for larger or more structured conversations. Emoji reactions provide a lightweight, non-verbal way to respond in real time without interrupting the flow of discussion.
While these changes may not seem groundbreaking on their own, they represent a noticeable shift in how WhatsApp is positioning itself. What began as a straightforward messaging app in 2009 is increasingly taking cues from platforms tailored for hybrid work environments. With over two billion users globally, even incremental updates like WhatsApp call scheduling could have a wide impact, especially for small teams or informal groups that already rely on the app for communication.
These new tools suggest that WhatsApp is no longer just focusing on personal messaging—it’s inching closer to becoming a viable option for casual work calls and group coordination, especially in markets where more complex platforms might be overkill. While it’s still not a full substitute for dedicated video conferencing solutions, the app is clearly narrowing the gap.
