WhatsApp now lets you join group calls that already started

What you need to know

• WhatsApp is now letting users join group calls that are already underway.
• A new call screen will show users a list of people who are already in the call.

The new feature should be available right now.

Messaging platform WhatsApp has announced a new feature that allows users to join group calls even after they have started. A new call screen will also show users a list of people who are already in the call, too.

Announced via blog post, the change comes at a time where the "popularity of group calls continues to grow," but it isn't always possible to join a call at the time it's created. For those instances, WhatsApp now makes it possible for people to join a call mid-flow.

Today we're introducing the ability to join a group call, even after it's started. Joinable calls reduce the burden of answering a group call as it starts, and brings the spontaneity and ease of in-person conversations to group calling on WhatsApp.

Alongside the new feature, WhatsApp is also adding a new call screen that will show users a list of people who are already on the call — allowing them to decide whether they really want to join or not.

We've also created a call info screen so you can see who is already on the call, and who has been invited but not yet joined. And, if you hit 'Ignore' you can join later from the calls tab in WhatsApp.

WhatsApp was already one of the best iPhone apps for video calling and this new change only cements its place towards the top of the pile. You can download WhatsApp from the App Store for free right now.