WhatsApp has long offered users the option to make audio and video calls within the app. To simplify this functionality further, Meta is testing a new call dialer integrated into WhatsApp for iPhone, allowing users to reach out to individuals not saved in their contacts.
WhatsApp introducing a call dialer feature
According to WABetaInfo and confirmed by DMN, the recent beta version of WhatsApp for iOS features a call dialer similar to the standard iPhone dialer for everyday calls. The process is straightforward: you can enter a person’s phone number; if it’s associated with WhatsApp, you can initiate a call directly from the app.
This innovation aims to streamline the calling process, making it faster to contact individuals and businesses without needing to add their numbers to your contacts beforehand. To access the dialer, simply tap the “+” button in the Calls tab within WhatsApp.
With this addition, Meta moves WhatsApp closer to becoming a comprehensive alternative to Apple’s Phone app. Following the recent release of iOS 18.2, users are now permitted to select a third-party application as their default for calls and texts. Although there are currently no apps that support this feature, it wouldn’t be surprising if WhatsApp enables this capability soon.
This week, WhatsApp also revealed a range of enhancements for its calling features. Meta is working to boost call quality, particularly for video calls which will soon have improved resolution. Additionally, users will have the option to initiate calls with selected members of a group chat.
The new call dialer feature is being gradually deployed to WhatsApp users and is currently accessible to those running the latest beta version via TestFlight. WhatsApp can be downloaded for free from the App Store.
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