WhatsApp will soon bring in-app call dialer for iPhone users

WhatsApp is working to release an in-app call dialer for iOS users. The feature is in the beta phase for now but will soon be available for public use.

In Short

• WhatsApp will soon rollout an in-app call dialler
• It will allow users to call on the app without saving the contact details
• The new feature will first roll out for iOS users only

WhatsApp, the globally popular messaging platform, is taking a significant step forward with the anticipated launch of an in-app call dialer feature. This enhancement is poised to elevate the user experience by integrating more functionality within the app’s ecosystem, bridging the gap between messaging and voice communication services. For now, the feature is only available for iOS beta users and will also roll out to iPhone users first. The in-app call dialer aims to offer users a seamless way to make phone calls directly from WhatsApp, much like a traditional phone dialer but with the added benefit of internet-based calling. Users will reportedly have access to a numeric keypad for dialing unsaved numbers, expanding WhatsApp’s utility beyond its current reliance on contacts stored in the app.

Currently, WhatsApp’s calling feature is limited to contacts who already use the app, requiring users to save a number in their contact list before initiating a call. The in-app call dialer removes this barrier, enabling users to dial and call numbers directly, whether they are in the app’s contact database. This aligns WhatsApp more closely with traditional phone functionality, making it a one-stop solution for all communication needs.

In a screenshot, shared by WABetaInfo, the beta users are experiencing this new feature to easily place calls by entering a phone number directly into the app. Unlike the Android version, WhatsApp for iOS has never included a floating action button to open the call dialer, as it is not a common design element within the iOS development environment. The in-app call dialer is expected to integrate seamlessly with WhatsApp’s existing features. For instance, users might be able to switch between a voice call and a video call mid-conversation or use the app’s messaging capabilities to share information during a call. The feature is also likely to include the familiar WhatsApp interface, ensuring a consistent user experience.

The addition of an in-app call dialer could position WhatsApp as a more comprehensive communication platform, potentially reducing the need for users to rely on traditional phone dialers. This move may also increase user engagement within the app, as it streamlines multiple functionalities under one roof.

However, the rollout of this feature might raise concerns about competition with telecom providers and other VoIP platforms. Additionally, user adoption will depend on how intuitively the feature integrates into the app’s current interface.

WhatsApp’s upcoming in-app call dialer feature is a promising development that underscores the platform’s commitment to innovation and user convenience. As per the reports, the feature is only for iOS for now, and the Android update is unknown.