Google Explores Direct WhatsApp Video Calls via Messages App
Key Takeaways
- WhatsApp video calls could be launched directly from Google Messages
- Calls fall back to Google Meet if the recipient lacks WhatsApp
- Feature detected in version 20250131 but no official release date announced
Google Tests WhatsApp Video Call Integration in Messages
Google is experimenting with a new capability that would allow users to start WhatsApp video calls directly through the Google Messages app. At present, video calls initiated in Google Messages default to Google Meet, but this behavior might change soon.
The potential feature was discovered during an APK teardown of Google Messages (version 20250131) by Android Authority. If both participants in a conversation have WhatsApp installed, tapping the video call icon would launch a WhatsApp video call. For recipients without WhatsApp, the system would revert to Google Meet.
Right now, Google Messages exclusively uses Google Meet for video calls. Users without Meet installed are prompted to download it before they can place a video call, and this applies to both individual and group chats.
In the experimental version, the WhatsApp integration is limited to one-on-one chats; group conversations will continue using Google Meet. It remains unclear whether users will eventually receive a choice between WhatsApp and Meet before starting a call.
Google has not revealed an official timeline for releasing this feature. Because it was found in a teardown, there is no guarantee it will become publicly available. If it does launch, it may first appear in beta testing before a broader rollout.
