Google is working on a game-changing feature for the Messages app, allowing users to make WhatsApp video calls directly from the app. Reports say this seamless integration will eliminate the need to switch between apps, making video calling more convenient than ever. The feature has been discovered within the app’s code and when Google Meet isn’t installed on the device, users have the option to video call either way.
This new addition aims to streamline the video-calling experience on Google’s native messaging app. According to a report by Android Authority, Google Messages may soon integrate WhatsApp’s video calling feature, allowing users to initiate calls directly from the app. The feature was uncovered in Google Messages version 20250131, where a hidden flag within the code was activated. However, it is not yet available for public use.
It is worth reminding that Google Messages only supports video calls through Google Meet at present. If Meet is not installed, the app prompts the user to download the app and try again. With this new feature, users can skip this step and make a video call via WhatsApp without leaving the messaging app.
In the screenshots shared by the publication, we can see a prompt suggesting users make video calls via WhatsApp. This appears when users tap the video call icon in a Google Messages conversation. However, this prompt only shows up if the caller does not have Google Meet installed on their device.
This new feature will directly open the video call interface in full-screen mode directly within Google Messages instead of redirecting the user to WhatsApp. Moreover, this feature is designed for individual chats. When you try to make group video calls, it will initiate video calls via Meet only. In addition to that, if the person on the other end does not have WhatsApp installed, Google Messages will not display the WhatsApp video call pop-up.
Google has not officially confirmed this feature yet, thus, the final implementation could differ from the current findings. In case the feature becomes available to the public, it could significantly improve the user experience for individuals who prefer using Google Messages over other messaging apps.
