- New feature in video calls: WhatsApp will allow you to disable the camera before accepting a video call.
- Increased privacy and security: This option will help avoid awkward situations and protect you from video call scams.
- Available in beta: The feature has been detected in beta 2.25.7.3 for Android and could soon reach all users.
- Impact on communications: This update gives users more control in personal and professional environments.
WhatsApp has developed a new feature that promises to change the video calling experience. Until now, accepting a video call automatically activated the camera, which could be inconvenient for many users. Now, the app is testing a feature that will allow users to disable camera before accepting the call, providing greater control and privacy.
This option has already been detected in the beta version 2.25.7.3 For Android, a button with the option "Turn off your video" will appear on the incoming call screen, allowing you to start the call with audio only. Additionally, the text on the accept button will change to "Accept without video," ensuring that the camera remains off when you answer.
Avoid awkward moments with more control over your camera
La automatic camera activation This has been a recurring problem for WhatsApp users. Video calls often take people by surprise when they're not ready to appear on screen. With this new setting, users can decide if they want to appear on video before accepting the call, eliminating the pressure of hastily turning on the camera.
This feature is also useful in professional settings. Many people use WhatsApp to impromptu work meetings and, in some cases, would prefer to start the conversation without showing themselves on camera. This option adds flexibility and improves the experience in instant communication.
Greater privacy and fraud prevention
Beyond convenience, this new feature provides key benefits in terms of privacy and securityOne of the risks of video calling is the emergence of scams in which cybercriminals use calls with inappropriate content to deceive and extort users. This type of scam, known as "sextortion," has been reported in various parts of the world, especially in countries like India.
By allowing people to accept a call without activating their camera, WhatsApp provides an additional layer of protection. Users will be able to check who's calling before showing up on video, reducing the risk of falling prey to this type of fraud.
An update that strengthens privacy in WhatsApp
In recent years, WhatsApp has implemented various improvements focused on ensuring a better privacy for its users. From the introduction of single-view messages to the option of lock chats with a password, the company has opted to provide greater control over how people interact on the platform.
This new video calling feature follows that line, allowing users to decide from the start how they want to respond to a video call. The ability to turn the camera on or off before answering joins other tools that seek to offer a more secure and customizable experience.
Availability and release
At the moment, this option is only available in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android, but its presence in the testing phase suggests that its global launch could be very closeAlthough WhatsApp hasn't provided an exact date for the update, it's likely the feature will arrive in the coming weeks with a new stable version of the app.
With this improvement, WhatsApp offers users greater control over their privacy and your video calling experience. The ability to take a call without the camera automatically turning on is a feature that many users have requested for years, and its arrival represents a significant progress in the way the app handles video communication.
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