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How to Make a Voice or Video Call on WhatsApp Desktop
Edited 6 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
WhatsAppWindowsMacVoice CallVideo CallCommunicationChatDesktopApplicationFeaturesUsage
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WhatsApp is a widely used messaging application that allows people to connect via text, voice, and video. Although WhatsApp started out as a mobile app, it has now expanded to desktop platforms as well, allowing users to seamlessly transition between their smartphones and computers. The desktop version of WhatsApp can be extremely useful for those who spend a large portion of their day working on a computer. Whether you want to take advantage of a larger screen or free up your hands by typing on a physical keyboard, WhatsApp Desktop offers many benefits, including the ability to make voice and video calls.
Introducing WhatsApp Desktop
WhatsApp Desktop offers almost all the features you get on the mobile app. One of the most convenient features is the ability to make voice or video calls directly from your computer. This ability can transform your communication, making it easier and more convenient to have a conversation without picking up the phone.
Before you start making calls on WhatsApp desktop, it's important to understand how it works. The desktop app must be linked to your mobile device to access your contacts and chats. This linking syncs your device and desktop version, ensuring that all messages and data are up-to-date on both platforms. Once set up, voice and video calling is easy with a few simple steps.
Setting up WhatsApp Desktop
First you need to set up WhatsApp on your desktop. You can do it here:
1. Download WhatsApp Desktop: First, you need to install WhatsApp Desktop on your computer. You can download it from the official WhatsApp website. It is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. Make sure your computer supports the version you are downloading.
2. Install the app: Once downloaded, open the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install WhatsApp on your desktop.
3. Launch WhatsApp Desktop: After installation, open WhatsApp Desktop on your computer. You will see a QR code on the screen.
4. Link your device: Open WhatsApp on your mobile phone, go to Settings and select 'WhatsApp Web/Desktop'. Now, use your mobile device to scan the QR code displayed on the desktop app. This action will link your WhatsApp to your desktop application.
5. Enjoy the app: Once linked, all your chats made from your mobile app will now be available on your desktop. You are now ready to make voice and video calls.
Making a voice call
Once the desktop setup is complete, you can easily make voice calls using WhatsApp Desktop. Here are the steps:
1. Select a contact: On WhatsApp Desktop, navigate through your chat list to find the contact you want to call. If you have a lot of chats, you can use the search bar to quickly find a specific contact.
2. Open chat: Click on the contact name to open the chat window.
3. Initiate a call: In the chat header, you will see a phone icon. Click on this phone icon to initiate a voice call to your selected contact.
4. During a call: During a voice call, you can mute the microphone, end the call, or switch to a video call by clicking the respective icons available in the call window.
5. End Call: To end the call, simply click on the End Call button represented by the red phone icon.
Making voice calls on WhatsApp Desktop is easy once the setup is complete. It allows for hands-free conversations and can be especially helpful when multitasking on your computer.
Video calling
Video calls on WhatsApp Desktop follow the same process as voice calls. Here's how you can start a video call:
1. Select a contact: Start by selecting the contact you want to video call from your WhatsApp desktop chat list.
2. Open chat: Click on the contact to open the chat conversation.
3. Start a video call: In the chat header, you will see a camera icon next to the phone icon. Click on the camera icon to start a video call.
4. During the call: Once the video call begins, you'll see several controls to manage the call. You can mute your microphone, turn off your video, switch to a voice call, or end the call. Use these controls to troubleshoot any issues like audio or video delays during the call.
5. End the call: Just like with a voice call, click the End Call button to end your video call.
Video calling is a powerful feature when visual communication is needed. It allows for engaging conversations, which can add a personal touch to your communications.
Troubleshooting common problems
Despite its ease of use, there are times when you may encounter problems making voice or video calls on WhatsApp Desktop. Here's a guide to troubleshoot some common issues:
Microphone or camera access
Make sure your computer has given WhatsApp Desktop access to your microphone and camera. If your microphone or camera isn't working, check the settings on your computer:
- For Windows, go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone/Camera and make sure apps can access your microphone/camera. Make sure WhatsApp is included in the list.
- On macOS, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Microphone/Camera and look for WhatsApp in the list. Make sure the checkbox is marked.
Check internet connection
A strong and stable internet connection is required for seamless calling on WhatsApp desktop. If the call fails to connect or is dropping frequently:
- Make sure your computer is connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Check your network for any connectivity issues. Restart your router if necessary.
Update WhatsApp Desktop
Outdated software can cause issues. Make sure you are using the latest version of WhatsApp Desktop. Check for updates on your system to make sure you have the latest version.
Restart the app
Sometimes, a simple restart of WhatsApp Desktop can solve many issues. Close the application completely and reopen it and see if that fixes the problem.
Comparison of mobile and desktop calls
Although both mobile and desktop apps serve the same purpose, each of them has its own specific purpose:
- WhatsApp Desktop offers a larger screen interface, which may be more convenient for longer conversations.
- Typing on a desktop with a physical keyboard can increase productivity, especially when sending messages simultaneously during a call.
- The mobile app offers freedom of movement and is portable, which is excellent for communication on the go.
The choice between desktop and mobile calling usually depends on personal preference and convenience. Both platforms are integrated to provide seamless communication.
Conclusion
Making a voice or video call on WhatsApp Desktop is a straightforward process once you've set up the app. These features mimic those available on the mobile version, allowing users to choose their preferred platform. Whether you want the convenience of making calls from a computer or using your phone, WhatsApp ensures that communication is accessible and easy. By following the setup instructions and using the troubleshooting tips provided, you can enjoy seamless conversations using WhatsApp Desktop. This feature is especially useful for people who spend a lot of time on a computer, allowing them to seamlessly switch between tasks while staying connected with friends, family, or coworkers.
Remember that technology can sometimes have some issues, but most problems can be resolved with patience and persistence. After all, WhatsApp's mission is to keep people connected, no matter where they are or what device they prefer to use. Enjoy your calls!
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