WhatsApp recently increased the capacity of participants in video calls, from four to eight, for beta users. The feature is now available in the stable version of WhatsApp for Android and iOS.
Head to theApp Storeand update WhatsApp for iOS to enjoy video calls with eight participants. In the case of Android, the update has not yet arrived on the Google Play Store. Alternatively, you can get the latest WhatsApp APKv2.20.141from the official website.
To have avideo call with eight participants, ensure all the participants have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on their smartphones.
WhatsApp vs. HouseParty
It seems Facebook-owned WhatsApp took the step of increasing participants’ capacity to compete with HouseParty. With more than 50 million monthly downloads, HouseParty hasgained a lot of popularity. It also allows a maximum of 8 participants to join a video call.
WhatsApp’s new feature will help it in retaining its audience. Group calls on WhatsApp are also end-to-end encrypted, which isn’t the case in mostvideo calling apps.
Separately, Facebook has launched another video calling service,Messenger Rooms, that allows video calls to go on for an unlimited time and allows 50 participants to enter.
Unlike WhatsApp, the service lacks end-to-end encryption. But Facebook has assured people that the company will store the video call data
Messenger Room has been launched by Facebook to retain its audience that has switched toZoommeetings. Zoom provides 40 minutes free video call to participants with a capacity of 100 participants.
Messenger Room will help Facebook in outclassing Zoom. Concerns overZoom’s security and privacy issueswill also help Facebook in the competition. Recently, the Indian government hasasked the citizensto not use Zoom due to security concerns.
