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WhatsApp · Calls1 min read

WhatsApp Is Testing a Way to Screen Calls From Unknown Numbers

WhatsApp is reportedly building a call filter that answers unknown callers for you and shows what they say as text, so you can skip spam without missing real calls.

By the Dashline deskSource: Yahoo News UK
WhatsApp Is Testing a Way to Screen Calls From Unknown Numbers
Photo: NeONBRAND neonbrand, CC0

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a way to answer unknown callers for you. Instead of just ringing, the app would pick up, ask why the person is calling, and show you a written version of the reply. The report comes from WABetaInfo, a site that follows the messenger closely.

What changed

Today, WhatsApp lets you silence calls from unknown numbers completely. That cuts down on spam, but it can also hide a call that matters. The planned filter would give you three choices for unknown callers:

  • Allow: every call rings through as normal.
  • Silence: calls are muted but still show in your call list and notifications.
  • Screen: WhatsApp accepts the call and asks the caller for the reason.

With screening, the caller's answer is turned into text that you can read. Then you decide whether to respond. The report says it works like transcripts for voice messages or translations. It uses language packs stored on your phone, which keeps end-to-end encryption in place.

What is not known yet

There is no release date for the WhatsApp feature. Apple already added a similar function to the iPhone with iOS 26, so WhatsApp is following a path others have started. Because the feature is still in development, details may change before anyone can use it.

The takeaway

WhatsApp may soon screen unknown callers and show you their reason as text, but there is no release date yet.

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