WhatsApp launches pilot scheme for free voice services

Online messaging service WhatsApp is testing its free voice calling feature through a limited number of people in India, possibly having sped up the launch to meet growing rival Hike's challenge (See: Hike Messenger introduces free voice calling).

The free voice calling function is currently available on an invite-only basis. This means one has to get a call through WhatsApp from someone who already has the service. The release has been restricted to Android users for now, and is reported to be accessible through the newest version 2.11.508 of the messenger app.

The software update is not available through Google Play Store, but can be downloaded as an APK file via the official WhatsApp website section for Android.

WhatsApp remains far ahead of Hike. A hit across the world, WhatsApp has also seen runaway success in India. Globally it has more than 700 million active users now; and in India its user base has gone up by more than 100 million.

The only other network that has higher numbers is none other than its own sister concern Facebook, with more than 1.2 billion users.

According to the tipster on Reddit, some people started seeing the VoIP feature merely after picking up a voice call made through WhatsApp and then restarting. But some folks may have to reinstall the application before being able to enjoy free voice calling. The invite-based launch makes it clear that things are being taken slowly.

If you've been lucky enough to be treated to WhatsApp's voice calling function, then you will notice an icon for it beside the Chats and Contacts tabs.

But for some, trying to dial up a contact using the free VoIP calling option is said to only bring up a list of apps through which the call can be placed, including Google's stock dial-pad.

(See: Online voice services can be very profitable: Hike chief Mittal)