WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature for Android users that would allow them to turn off their camera before answering a video call. This functionality, currently in development, aims to provide users with greater control over their privacy while using the app for video communication.
The feature was discovered through an APK teardown of the WhatsApp beta version 2.25.7.3 for Android, conducted by Android Authority. While the option is not yet available to the public, developers were able to activate it by modifying the app’s code. The feature introduces a prompt that allows users to disable their video feed before answering an incoming video call, making the call voice-only by default.
According to reports, when a user receives a video call, they will see an option labeled “Turn off your video.” If selected, the call will be answered in audio-only mode. Additionally, if the camera is already off, another prompt, “Accept without video,” may appear as a confirmation. Users will still have the option to enable their camera during the call by selecting “Turn on your video.”
Currently, WhatsApp does not provide users with the ability to disable their camera before answering a video call. While it is possible to turn off the video feed once the call has begun, there is no way to preemptively disable the camera before accepting the call. This upcoming feature aligns WhatsApp with other video conferencing platforms like Google Meet and Microsoft Teams, which already allow users to choose whether to enable their camera before joining a call.
Other Features in Development
In addition to the camera toggle option, WhatsApp is reportedly working on several other new features for Android users. One notable addition is UPI Lite, a feature aimed at simplifying digital payments within the app. UPI Lite would allow users to make small transactions without the need to enter a PIN, streamlining the payment process for everyday transactions.
Furthermore, WhatsApp is said to be developing a new user interface for its Meta AI chatbot. This enhanced interface is expected to introduce an automatic voice mode, along with suggested prompts to help users interact more seamlessly with the AI-powered chatbot.
As WhatsApp continues to expand its feature set, these updates could enhance user convenience and privacy, reinforcing its position as one of the most widely used messaging platforms worldwide. While no official release date has been confirmed, the new features are expected to be rolled out in future updates after successful testing.
