After much anticipation, WhatsApp finally updates its app with a much-needed feature for users.

WhatsApp was first reported to be working on increasing participants for both voice and video calls in mid April. Soon after that, WhatsApp put it up as a beta test for its users.

After testing for about a week or so, WhatsApp has already pushed out an update for its users. It’s not made clear if the feature is live yet, but since it’s in the update, it should be up fairly soon.

As one would expect, the update will now allow up to 8 participants (up from 4) in a group voice/ video call. This is especially useful for most of us now as we’re currently under the Movement Control Order (MCO).

With the newly added feature, one can voice/ video call up to 8 family members or friends for a simple catch up while everyone stays safely at home.

Of course, it can also be used as an alternative tool for conference calls, as long as no more than 8 people are involved.

Most importantly, any and all calls made on WhatsApp are end-to-end encrypted, so this new feature is guaranteed to provide a secure line for all its users.

The only issue with the new update now is that it’s only available to iOS users. Android users can only use the feature if they have the latest beta version installed.

Hopefully, Android users won’t have to wait too long before the official update hits on the Play Store.

Parent company Facebook is hoping to bring up to 50 participants in a call “within weeks”. For now, 8 people is a good start.