- WhatsApp is rolling out an in-app dialer to select beta testers.
- Users can make calls directly from the app without needing to save contact numbers.
- The dialer is accessed via a floating call action button located in the Calls tab.
- This update is part of WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to improve its platform.
- The company is also testing additional features alongside the in-app dialer.
WhatsApp, widely favored among Android users for messaging, has addressed a longstanding issue regarding calling functionalities within the app. Previously, users were required to save contact numbers before placing calls, limiting immediate access. In a bid to enhance user convenience and expand app capabilities, WhatsApp has initiated the rollout of an in-app dialer feature among select beta testers.
According to recent updates from WABetaInfo, a floating call action button now appears within the Calls tab for these users. This new button enables direct dialing of unsaved numbers from within the app. Additionally, users have the option to save the newly dialed number as a new contact or append it to an existing contact card. For added flexibility, a messaging shortcut has been integrated into the in-app dialer screen, allowing users to easily switch to messaging instead of initiating a call.
Currently, this feature is being gradually introduced and is accessible only to selected beta testers who have updated to version 2.24.13.17 of WhatsApp.
How does this change things for WhatsApp users?
While apps like FaceTime streamline the calling process by allowing users to initiate calls using names, email addresses, or contact numbers directly, WhatsApp traditionally required users to manually save numbers to their address book or open a chat with the contact to start a call.
This method not only proved cumbersome and time-consuming but also raised security concerns. Storing numbers in the address book could potentially expose users’ profile details, such as last seen status and profile picture, depending on their privacy settings.
The latest update from WhatsApp marks a significant improvement in user convenience and privacy during calls. This update eliminates the need to save numbers beforehand, thereby offering a cleaner address book experience.
In addition to this enhancement, WhatsApp is actively testing several other new features. For instance, version 2.24.12.2 introduced a redesigned preview feature for WhatsApp status updates to selected beta testers. This update presents status stories in a horizontal layout, enabling users to view status updates directly without needing to open them individually.
