WhatsApp is about to introduce a major new capability, it’s reported and it will finally allow users of the WhatsApp web app to take part in voice and video calls. Parent company Meta has other innovations planned, including a feature for iOS users to be able to share their chat history with new group members. More on that below.

Russia has officially banned WhatsApp, citing non-compliance with local laws. Kremlin urged its 100 million users to switch to the domestic 'Max' app, a developing national messenger. This move follows similar actions against Facebook and Instagram,