New Feature in Development for Android Users
WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow Android users to disable their camera before accepting a video call. This upcoming functionality, discovered in a beta version of WhatsApp, aims to provide users with greater control over how they join video calls.
Turning Off Camera Before Video Calls on WhatsApp
According to Android Authority, the feature was found during an APK teardown of WhatsApp beta version 2.25.7.3. While it is not yet available for public use, the publication managed to activate the feature manually within the app.
The feature introduces a new option called “Turn off your video“, which allows users to disable their camera before accepting an incoming video call. When enabled, the call will start in voice-only mode.
Additionally, if the camera is already off, users may see an “Accept without video” prompt for confirmation. However, they will still have the option to turn on the camera mid-call using the “Turn on your video” option.
READ MORE: iPhone 17 Pro Models May Feature Liquid Cooling for Better Thermal Management
At present, WhatsApp users can disable their video feed only after accepting a call. The upcoming feature is expected to function similarly to options available on Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and other video conferencing platforms.
Other WhatsApp Features in Development
Apart from this new video call functionality, WhatsApp is also reportedly working on several other Android-exclusive features, including:
- UPI Lite Integration – A simplified payment feature that will allow users to make transactions without entering a PIN.
- New Meta AI Interface – WhatsApp is testing an improved UI for its AI-powered chatbot, which will include an automatic voice mode and prompt suggestions to enhance the user experience.
WhatsApp Enhancing User Experience
These upcoming features signal WhatsApp’s continuous efforts to improve its platform, making it more user-friendly and versatile. While the camera disable option for video calls is still in development, it is expected to enhance privacy and flexibility for users once officially released.
