WhatsApp is planning to expands its group video chat function to allow up to 8 members. The app is currently in beta, but testers on iOS and Android can download it.

Earlier this month, WhatsApp started offering video calls of up to 4 people and now it plans to extend the limit twofold. However, given the feature is still in beta, it might take some time to reach all users. There’s also the limitation of people using an old version, something that is probably taking care during the test process.

Is WhatsApp going to compete with zoom, house party and such apps that have become popular because of social distancing?

Given how Facebook positions WhatsApp as a messaging service to your closest friends and family, the extended amount of people is probably just to allow more people to join social distanced evenings, dinners, and celebrating holidays. The platform is unlikely to try and take on Zoom, Google Meet or the likes for now.