Your WhatsApp calls just got smarter: How to schedule, raise hands in groups, and react with emojis

WhatsApp has rolled out a brand-new update that makes calling more organised, interactive, and user-friendly. From scheduling calls in advance to raising your hand in group chats, the instant messaging app is making sure conversations flow more smoothly than ever.

1. What’s New With Scheduled Calls?

The biggest highlight of this update is the ability to schedule calls ahead of time. Whether it’s a one-to-one chat or a group discussion, users can now set a date and time for a call and send out invites directly. Once the call is planned, participants also get reminders so no one misses out.

2. More Control During Group Calls

To make group discussions easier, WhatsApp has introduced a “raise hand” feature, letting people signal when they want to speak without cutting across others. On top of that, emoji reactions are now available during calls, so participants can share quick responses or emotions without interrupting the flow of the conversation.

3. Smarter Calls Tab

The Calls tab has also been given a makeover. It now shows all upcoming calls with participant names, and users can share invite links with ease. Organisers also get notified whenever someone joins using a link, making call management much simpler.

4. Privacy Remains a Priority

Like all WhatsApp calls, scheduled and live calls continue to be protected with end-to-end encryption, ensuring every conversation stays private and secure.

5. Simple and Useful for Everyone

Setting up a scheduled call is straightforward, just head to the Calls tab, pick a contact or group, tap on “Schedule Call”, choose the type of call, date, and time, and confirm. These updates are designed for both personal and professional use, helping people plan better, save time, and engage more effectively.

WhatsApp also revealed in its India Monthly Report that it banned over 98 lakh accounts in June to fight abuse and harmful activity on the platform. Of these, nearly 19.79 lakh accounts were proactively removed even before receiving user complaints.

With scheduling tools, interactive options, and improved organisation, WhatsApp is clearly aiming to make calling more reliable, secure, and convenient for everyone.

Inputs from agencies