How to make a video call on WhatsApp

What you will learn

In this guide, you will learn how to make a video call using WhatsApp on your iPhone. A video call lets you see the other person while you talk, just like being in the same room. It is a wonderful way to stay close to family and friends, especially when they live far away.

What you need

• An iPhone with WhatsApp installed
• A Wi-Fi connection (recommended) or mobile data
• The person you want to call must also have WhatsApp

The steps

Step 1: Open WhatsApp

Find the WhatsApp app on your home screen. It has a green icon with a white telephone inside a speech bubble. Tap on it to open it. If you have not used WhatsApp before, you will need to set it up first with your phone number.

Step 2: Go to your Chats

At the bottom of the screen, you will see several tabs. Tap on Chats. This shows you your list of conversations. If you have chatted with the person before, you will see their name here.

Step 3: Open the conversation with the person you want to call

Tap on the name of the person you want to video call. This opens your conversation with them. If you have not chatted with them before, tap the pencil icon (or the compose button) at the top right to start a new chat, and select their name from your contacts.

Step 4: Tap the video camera icon

At the top right of the conversation screen, you will see a small video camera icon. Tap on it. WhatsApp will start calling the other person with video. You will see yourself on the screen while you wait for them to answer.

Step 5: Talk and enjoy your call

When the other person answers, you will see their face on the large part of the screen, and your own face in a small window in the corner. Speak normally — the microphone picks up your voice automatically. When you want to end the call, tap the red button at the bottom of the screen.

Helpful tips

• Use Wi-Fi for better quality: Video calls work best on a Wi-Fi connection. If you use mobile data, the video quality may be lower and it will use your data.
• Good lighting helps: Sit facing a window or a lamp so the other person can see your face clearly. Avoid having bright light behind you.
• Hold your phone steady: Rest your phone against something or hold it with both hands to keep the image steady. You can also prop it up on a table.
• Switch cameras: During a call, you can tap the camera flip icon to switch between the front camera (showing your face) and the back camera (showing what is in front of you).