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Currently, the limit of users that can be in a WhatsApp video call is four.
CNET in Spanish
For the latest news and information on the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO website.
In an online conference, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg confirmed on April 24 that starting next week WhatsApp users will be able to make video calls and voice calls for up to eight people. However, the executive did not elaborate on the launch of the function.
Facebook confirmed to CNET en Español that video calls of up to eight people will be available worldwide for iOS and Android users.
This feature had already been announced, although it was only available to users with the beta version of WhatsApp for iOS and Android. The service has been one of the most used to keep in touch during the coronavirus crisis (COVID-19).
The expansion of participants began to be tested at the beginning of the month, but it is until today, April 21, that WaBetaInfo confirmed that the update is available for iOS and Android users who have the latest WhatsApp beta update. However, in order for it to work, all communication participants must have this update.
Currently, WhatsApp and Instagram video calls have the most limited number of simultaneous users, allowing only four. In comparison, FaceTime allows up to 32 people at the same time and Hangouts up to 10 people in its free version and 25 in the business version. Snapchat accepts up to 15 people, Facebook Messenger 50 people (although only six of them can broadcast) and Duo allows video calls of up to 12 participants.
Along with the official announcement of the calls of eight people on WhatsApp, Facebook announced Messenger Rooms, a function that will allow users to create videoconference rooms —from Messenger or Facebook— and invite anyone, even if they don’t have a Facebook account. These video calls will have the capacity to connect 50 people at the same time, with no time limit.
The coronavirus crisis It has forced governments in many countries to put in place drastic measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Among these measures is the mandatory quarantine for many citizens, which prevents physical contact and has urged people to communicate with their loved ones through video calls.
As of Friday, April 24, the coronavirus has already infected more than 2.7 million people and caused more than 190,000 deaths worldwide, as can be seen in great detail in the coronavirus map. On March 11, the World Health Organization called officially to COVID-19 as a pandemic.
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