WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that could significantly improve user privacy during video calls. The popular messaging platform WhatsApp may soon allow users to disable their camera even before answering an incoming video call.
This upcoming feature is currently under testing and was spotted in the Android beta version of the app. If rolled out widely, it could offer users more control and flexibility, especially in situations where turning on the camera isn’t convenient.
📱 What Is the New WhatsApp Feature?
According to reports, WhatsApp is testing a feature that introduces a new option during incoming video calls:
- “Turn off your video” button before answering
- Ability to accept the call as a voice-only call
- New prompt: “Accept without video”
Currently, when users receive a video call on WhatsApp, the front camera automatically activates once the call is accepted. This can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when receiving calls from unknown numbers or at inconvenient moments.
With the new update, users will be able to avoid this by turning off their camera even before picking up the call.
🔍 How Will It Work?
Here’s how the feature is expected to function:
- When a video call arrives, you’ll see a new option — Turn off your video
- Tap on it before answering the call
- You’ll then get an option to Accept without video
- The call will continue as a voice-only call
This small but impactful change can enhance privacy and reduce awkward situations.
🔒 Why This Feature Matters
This feature could be particularly useful in several real-life scenarios:
- When you’re in a public place and don’t want to appear on camera
- When receiving calls from unknown or suspicious numbers
- During emergencies when video is not necessary
- While multitasking or in low-light environments
It also adds an extra layer of privacy protection, giving users full control over how they answer calls.
⚠️ Safety Tip: Be Careful with Unknown Calls
WhatsApp already offers a feature to silence calls from unknown numbers, which helps avoid spam or scam attempts. Users are strongly advised:
- Avoid answering unknown video calls
- Enable silence unknown callers feature
- Check caller identity before engaging
With rising cyber threats, such features play a crucial role in protecting user privacy.
🧪 Currently in Beta Testing
The feature has been spotted in WhatsApp’s Android beta version 2.25.7.3, as reported by sources like Android Authority. However:
- It is still under testing
- No official rollout date has been confirmed
- It may be released globally after successful testing
📊 What to Expect Next?
WhatsApp has been actively introducing new features focused on:
- User privacy
- Better call experience
- Personalization options
If this feature performs well during testing, it is likely to be included in a future stable update.
✅ Final Thoughts
This upcoming WhatsApp feature may seem small, but it solves a common inconvenience faced by millions of users. By allowing users to turn off their camera before answering a video call, WhatsApp is taking another step toward improving user comfort and privacy.
Stay updated and make sure your app is updated regularly to access new features as soon as they roll out.
Disclaimer: Features mentioned are based on beta testing reports and may change before official release.
