- WhatsApp effects and masks add fun and privacy to video calls.
- Activation is simple, but for now it is more widely available in the beta version.
- They range from stickers, distortions and animations to advanced backgrounds and color filters.
- Privacy and end-to-end encryption are always active when using these effects.
WhatsApp video calls have experienced a true revolution thanks to the arrival of advanced features such as visual effects and animated masks. These new features, fully integrated into the app, allow for extreme customization of the experience during a video chat, providing both greater privacy and a playful and creative touch. All this without losing the simplicity and security that characterize the platform. Discover it in this guide. How effects and masks work in WhatsApp video calls, what options are available right now, how to activate and use them, and resolve all your questions about compatibility, privacy, and advanced usage tips.
What are effects and masks in WhatsApp video calls?
The arrival of animated effects and masks WhatsApp video calls mark a before and after in the way we interact visually from the most popular messaging app. These effects allow you to modify the real-time appearance during any video call, displaying everything from small animations, stickers, and facial deformations to virtual backgrounds and even fun digital masks that adapt to the user's movement.
What differentiates the effects of masks? effects They often include everything from sparkles, animations, stars, tears, or even underwater reflections to nice facial distortions or filter-like color adjustments. wearing masks They add custom elements to their faces or backgrounds, such as puppy ears, sunglasses, karaoke microphones, and even over-the-top facial expressions.
Unlike platforms like Instagram or Snapchat, Integration into WhatsApp is direct: You don't need to install any third-party apps, the effects are visible to both you and the other person, and privacy is still guaranteed thanks to end-to-end encryption.
The feature is currently in a phase of progressive expansion. It is available mainly in beta version WhatsApp, especially on Android, although activation for all users is already underway and will be progressively extended globally, including iOS devices.
How to activate camera effects and masks on WhatsApp
The process for activate effects and masks In WhatsApp video calls, it's simple and straightforward, but it may vary slightly depending on whether you're on the standard version or a beta user. It's important to note that, for many users, the feature will only appear if you're part of the beta or have the latest available update installed.
- Open the app WhatsApp and access the settings menu from the three vertical dots or the corresponding icon.
- Choose the section 'Settings', and then enter 'Privacy'.
- Scroll down until you find the option 'Enables camera effects' and activate it by pressing the switch.
- In the informational message that appears, click on 'Continue' to accept the terms and conditions and enable the feature.
If you don't have the feature available, you may need to update WhatsApp from Google Play or the App Store. If you're using Android and don't see the option even though your app is up to date, consider installing the beta version from the official website, APK Mirror, or TestFlight on iPhone. If you're having issues, check that the app has camera and microphone permissions in the system settings, or restart your device.
Types of effects and masks available on WhatsApp
WhatsApp offers a varied collection of effects and masks so you can customize your image in real time while making a video call. Although the platform is constantly adding new options, these are the most prominent and popular effects and masks you can currently use:
- Star Windows: Add animated stars around your eyes or mouth, which move when you speak or gesture.
- Goof: Performs a facial deformation that gives you a more comical and "chubby" appearance.
- Puppy: Place puppy ears and snouts on your face, similar to the classic Snapchat filters.
- Nice day: Add round sunglasses and simulate a background with animated clouds.
- Tears: Generates animated tears that fall from your eyes.
- Underwater: Simulates a water and reflection effect, making it look like you're talking underwater.
- Sparkles: Spread sparkles or glitter across the screen, giving a more festive effect.
- Nervous: Distort your facial expression to make you look surprised or nervous, emphasizing your features.
- Energy: Add a colorful aura or glow around your body silhouette.
- Karaoke: Set up a microphone and lighting effects, simulating being on a karaoke stage.
These are just a few examples, but WhatsApp plans to expand the list. In addition, the feature allows dynamic backgrounds and color filters, including:
- Color filters: 'Warm', 'Cool', 'B&W', 'Dreamy', 'Vintage TV', 'Fisheye' and others to modify the overall tone of the image.
- virtual backgrounds: You can blur the background, or replace it with landscapes (beach, office, coffee shop, jungle, etc.), abstract graphics, or realistic images if you don't want to show what's behind you.
How to use effects during a video call
Once you have the effects and masks activated, Using them in a video call is really intuitiveYou can apply them to both individual and group calls, and the process is the same in both cases:
- Start a video call from any chat or group.
- During the call, search the magic wand icon in the top right from the screen with the image from your camera.
- Press the magic wand and a menu divided into two sections will appear: filters y fondos.
- Select any effect, filter, or background by tapping it. The change is immediate and visible to both you and your interlocutors.
- If you want to remove the effect, simply return to the menu and tap the undo/cancel icon. You can change the effect as many times as you like during the call.
On less powerful devices or older versions, loading and applying effects may take a few seconds. If you notice your phone heating up or the battery draining quickly, this is completely normal due to real-time image processing.
Privacy and requirements for using effects and masks on WhatsApp
WhatsApp maintains end-to-end encryption Even when using facial or hand effects and masks, the app only briefly analyzes the images captured by the camera to apply the effects locally and does not store biometric or facial data on its servers.
To make use of these functions, it is essential that your device has recent versions of WhatsApp (or is enrolled in the beta) and active camera and microphone permissions. The effects work on most modern phones, including those that are a few years old, although optimal performance is seen on newer models.
In pop-up messages when activating the function, WhatsApp links to your specific privacy policy on effects and masksYou can review it at any time to see how your data is temporarily used and what rights you have as a user.
Tips and tricks to get the most out of WhatsApp effects and masks
Beyond using the effects for fun, they can be useful for Protect your privacy and improve your image in work meetings Or simply break the ice and liven up conversations with friends and family. Here are some practical tips:
- If you are in a hurry or don't want to show your surroundings, choose a virtual background (Blur or Office) to focus attention on you.
- Switch between masks multiple times during the call to surprise and keep the interaction fun.
- Combine color filters with masks to obtain more spectacular or artistic results.
- If you experience any issues, check the app's permissions and consider closing other background camera apps.
- Remember that effects not only affect your image, but also the preview the other person sees: they can be a great icebreaker in large groups.
Other advanced features and new features in WhatsApp video calls
In addition to the effects and masks, WhatsApp has enhanced its video calling section with complementary functions that facilitate remote collaboration and advanced visual communication. These include:
- Share screen: You can show what's happening on your phone to other participants.
- Playing sound during screen share: Allows you to watch videos, presentations or tutorials alongside the original audio.
- Autofocus on speaker: WhatsApp detects who's speaking and automatically enlarges their image, useful in group meetings.
- Participant controls: It is now possible to mute, pin, or highlight users during a multi-party call.
All this, together with the arrival of effects and masks, places WhatsApp as a really powerful option for secure and creative video calls, both personal and professional.
The integration of effects and masks into WhatsApp video calls represents a new era in visual communication. Now you can transform every call into a more private, original, and fun experience, wherever you are and with just a few taps. The ease of activation, the growing variety of effects, and complete privacy guarantees make WhatsApp stand out as a video calling tool that's as advanced as it is easy to use. If you haven't tried effects and masks yet, the next step is simple: try them and discover the potential for more creative and secure video calls.