WhatsApp is expanding its AI-powered features by allowing users to create personalized virtual backgrounds during video calls. The feature, now available for both Android and iPhone users in select regions including India, lets people generate unique AI-created scenes instantly while on a call.
The tool is designed to improve privacy, reduce distractions, and make video conversations more visually engaging. Instead of showing their real surroundings, users can now replace backgrounds with creative AI-generated environments ranging from professional office setups to scenic landscapes and futuristic designs.
The feature works similarly to virtual backgrounds offered by platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, but WhatsApp has added AI-based customization directly inside the app.
Why WhatsApp Introduced AI Call Backgrounds
WhatsApp says the feature is aimed at enhancing the overall video calling experience for users.
Many people attend calls while:
- Working from home
- Traveling
- Sitting in crowded spaces
- Sharing rooms with family or colleagues
AI-generated backgrounds help users maintain privacy by hiding their real surroundings while also giving calls a cleaner and more professional appearance.
The feature can also reduce visual distractions and make casual video conversations more fun and creative.
How AI Background Generation Works
WhatsApp allows users to either select ready-made preset backgrounds or create entirely new scenes using AI prompts.
Users simply describe the type of background they want, and the AI system generates an image automatically.
Examples include:
- Modern office setups
- Beach sunsets
- Luxury interiors
- Nature landscapes
- Futuristic gaming rooms
- Minimal workspaces
If users do not like the first result, they can regenerate new versions instantly.
Step-by-Step Guide for Android Users
Start a Video Call
Open WhatsApp on your Android smartphone and either start or join a video call.
Turn on the Camera
The feature only works when the device camera is enabled during the call.
Open Call Effects
Tap the Call Effects option visible during the video conversation.
Select Backgrounds
Choose the Backgrounds option to browse preset backgrounds or AI tools.
Use “Create With AI”
Tap the Create with AI feature and enter a description of the background you want.
Generate and Apply
After the AI creates the image:
- Apply the background instantly
- Or regenerate another version if needed
Users can also completely remove backgrounds and effects whenever they want.
How iPhone Users Can Create AI Backgrounds
The process on iOS devices is nearly identical.
Open WhatsApp and Join a Video Call
Launch WhatsApp on your iPhone and start or receive a video call.
Enable Camera Access
Turn on your camera during the call.
Access Call Effects
Tap the Call Effects menu and choose Backgrounds.
Generate an AI Scene
Select Create with AI, then type a description for the virtual background.
Apply or Change the Background
Users can:
- Apply the generated image
- Regenerate another version
- Remove all effects entirely
Feature Available in Select Countries
The AI-generated call background feature is currently rolling out gradually and is available in select regions, including India.
Both Android and iOS users with supported WhatsApp versions can access the tool once it becomes available on their accounts.
Is WhatsApp Charging for AI Backgrounds?
No. WhatsApp currently offers AI-generated call backgrounds free of cost.
Users do not need to purchase any subscription to use the feature.
WhatsApp Expanding Its AI Ecosystem
The addition of AI-generated call backgrounds is part of WhatsApp’s broader push toward AI-powered communication tools.
The company has recently been testing and expanding features related to:
- AI chat assistance
- Smart themes and customization
- AI stickers
- Enhanced privacy tools
- Advanced video calling experiences
As competition among messaging apps intensifies, WhatsApp appears focused on making conversations more interactive, personalized, and visually appealing through artificial intelligence features.
