The anticipated Whatsapp voice calling functionality could arrive sooner than expected.
You might be able to make free voice calls directly from Whatsapp in the very near future, according to some translator sources.
A tip received by WPCentral from volunteers who translate the Hindi language for the cross-platform messaging app, said they had received new translation requests directly relating to the voice calling feature.
The translation strings received include the phrases “Hang Up”, “Incoming Calls” and “Outgoing Call”.
This is a strong indication that Whatsapp is preparing to launch the feature imminently.
Such timing would fall in line with the original Q2 2014 release for Whatsapp calling outlined by the app’s CEO and founder Jan Koum.
“We’re adding voice to WhatsApp so people can stay in touch with friends and loved ones no matter where they are in the world”, explained Koum at MWC in February.
The voice calling feature will initially be made available to Android and iOS devices, but BlackBerry and Windows Phone will get it at a later date.
Trying to outdo rivals like BBM and Skype, Whatsapp’s aim is to make voice calling just as speedy and efficient as their text messaging service.
“We use the least amount of bandwidth out there, and have optimised the hell out of it. We’ve made sure the quality is there though, just like the messaging functions of WhatsApp. We’re focusing on simplicity.”
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