WhatsApp Now Lets You Call Select Members of a Group Chat

WhatsApp is indisputably the most popular messaging app in the world. Chances are you use it to message friends and family around the world, and while the majority of communications are likely texts, you probably use the app for audio and video calls, too. (WhatsApp says two billion calls are made on the app every day.) The next time you open up WhatsApp on your phone or computer to make a call, you may notice some changes—mostly for the better.

Choose specific group chat members to call

Sometimes, texting gets to be too much, and you want to break the group chat into a call. That said, there are also times where not everyone in the chat should be (or wants to be) in the call. That call button has always been all or nothing, though: You hit it, and you ring everyone in the group—like it or not.

Now, however, WhatsApp is letting users choose who among the group chat should be included in a call. It's a great upgrade for breaking out some of the chat—whether you're trying not disturb friends who are working or sleeping, or simply talking smack.

Your calls should look better

According to WhatsApp, the new update means that calls are more "reliable," and are now higher resolution—although the company didn't say how high that resolution really is. These upgrades apply to group chats and one-on-one calls on both desktop and mobile.

It's easier to start a call on desktop

WhatsApp says it has improved the "Calls" tab on the WhatsApp desktop app. Now when you click into this tab, you'll be able to start a call, create a link for a call, and dial a specific number—although the company is working on ditching phone numbers altogether.

Ten new effects for video calls

These types of announcements always go over my head—I simply never use them. But for any WhatsApp users who also enjoy video call effects, there are 10 new ones for you to try. WhatsApp highlighted a new puppy ear filter, an underwater setting, as well as a new karaoke filter that places a microphone in front of you.