WhatsApp voice calls are now available on Jio phone, other KaiOS based smart phones
WhatsApp voice calls are now available for Jio Phone and other KaiOS based cell phone users around the world. The new feature works on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology and requires users to have active Wi-Fi or mobile data connectivity to make WhatsApp calls. The Facebook-owned company said on Tuesday that voice calls through WhatsApp are now available to millions of smartphone users around the world. WhatsApp for Jio Phone launched in 2018, although it debuted on other KaiOS-based functional phones in 2019.
Users need to download WhatsApp version 2.2110.41 on their Jio phone and other KaiOS devices to get the voice call function. Once activated, users can make WhatsApp calls by going to Options > Voice call from any available discussion thread. Users can also attend WhatsApp voice calls on their multifunction phones including Jio Phone just like they attend normal calls. However, it is important to note that the phone must be connected to Wi-Fi or cellular internet to receive calls through the instant messaging app.
“Bringing WhatsApp voice calls to KaiOS-enabled devices helps us connect the world privately with a service that is simple, reliable and accessible to everyone, no matter what type of mobile device they are using,” said Matt Idema, WhatsApp COO, in a report.
WhatsApp debuted on Jio Phone before it was released on other KaiOS phones in September 2018. However, it arrived on models including the Nokia 8110 4G in 2019.
Since its release, WhatsApp is preloaded on most KaiOS phones. The app is even claimed to be the best KaiOS non-system app with the highest number of monthly active users in the world. However, WhatsApp has not provided any official figures to support this claim.
“With WhatsApp, we are taking another important step towards the goal of making essential and useful services accessible to everyone, including underserved communities, the elderly looking for simple devices and those who use KaiOS devices like companion phone. Now, with the voice call feature, users can easily make a call anytime and anywhere cost effectively, ”said Sébastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies.
WhatsApp introduced its voice calling feature on smartphones in February 2015. Although WhatsApp for Desktop users were only able to make WhatsApp voice calls through its Windows and Mac apps only in March of this year.
Is WhatsApp's new privacy policy the end of your privacy? We discussed this on Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.
