WhatsApp is bringing a big update to UK phones and here's everything that's new.06:09, 30 Jul 2026There are some major changes coming to WhatsApp, and it's good news for anyone who uses this platform to make phone calls. The Meta-owned chat app has just confirmed one of its biggest calling upgrades yet, with five new features on the way that promise to make voice and video chats smarter, smoother and more secure.‌With billions of people now using WhatsApp to make calls, these upgrades should prove popular when they begin rolling out over the coming weeks.‌"Whether you're on your phone, at your desk, or switching between the two, calling on WhatsApp just works, privately and simply," WhatsApp said in a statement sent to Express.co.uk.‌"Today, we are bringing new features to make that easier no matter where you are or what device you're on."So, what is new and when can you get the features?The headline feature is, without doubt, Web Calling. Once available, users will be able to make and receive one-to-one and group voice or video calls directly through WhatsApp Web, removing the need to download the desktop app.‌"Whether you're a college student on a shared computer, using a work laptop that doesn't allow app downloads, or simply prefer your browser, you can jump on a call without leaving the browser you're already on," WhatsApp explained.Web users will also get access to popular calling features already available on mobile and desktop, including screen sharing, emoji reactions and a dedicated Calls tab showing recent conversations and favourite contacts.Next, there's an easier way to switch chats. WhatsApp says it is introducing Call Transfer, making it possible to switch an active group call between devices without disconnecting.‌That means you can start chatting on your smartphone before seamlessly moving the conversation to your laptop or desktop with no interruption.Another boost is a new Waiting Room feature. This is being added to give hosts greater control over who joins group conversations.When creating a call link, organisers can enable a "Require approval to join" setting. Anyone using that link will be placed in a virtual waiting room until the host lets them in.‌"We've introduced Waiting Room," WhatsApp said."When you create a WhatsApp call link with 'Require approval to join' enabled, participants will enter a waiting room until you're ready to let them in."Finally, there are two changes aimed at boosting the quality of phone and video callls.‌QuickHD is being added which delivers high-definition video within the first few seconds of a call, helping conversations look sharper almost instantly.Then there is Noise Suppression, which reduces background sounds to make voices easier to hear.Whether you're in a busy café, walking down a noisy street or working in a crowded office, the feature is designed to cut distractions and improve audio quality. It can also be turned on or off at any time from the in-call settings.Article continues belowWhatsApp says all five features are now rolling out and will be available to users worldwide soon.