News WhatsApp now lets you schedule group calls

[News]

WhatsApp is upgrading its workplace chops. On Thursday, the Meta-owned company rolled out new group calling features. Chief among them is the ability to schedule team calls in advance.

Starting today, you can schedule future calls under the Calls tab. There, press the + button, and choose "Schedule call." This will also let you invite colleagues or friends.

You can keep tabs on your upcoming meetings in that same Calls tab. There, you'll also find an attendees list and call links. (Link creators will receive notifications when someone joins the call.) You can also use those call links to add the meeting to your calendar app. Each member will get an alert when it's time to start.

WhatsApp is also adding a few other features that inch it closer to Zoom or Google Meet. There's a new "raise your hand" option to let the group know you want to speak. You can also send emoji reactions. This is standard work-call fare, but new to the platform that started as a simple instant messaging app in 2009.