With the release of iOS 18.2, Apple has introduced a new feature allowing iPhone users to select third-party apps as their default for both calls and messaging. WhatsApp has now rolled out an update that supports this API, enabling users to set it as their default application for calls and texts on the iPhone.
Designate WhatsApp as the default calling/messaging application
As highlighted by WABetaInfo, the recent update of WhatsApp for iOS has added support for the selection of default apps. Once you set a new app as the default, it will automatically handle relevant actions. For example, if you click on a phone number, your iPhone will initiate the call with WhatsApp instead of the default Phone app.
This capability to designate default apps originated from changes mandated by the European Union, but Apple decided to extend this feature to all users.
Besides modifying the default applications for calls and messages, iPhone users now have the option to select different default apps for email, call filtering, web browsing, translation, password management, payment transactions (available in select regions), and keyboards. In Europe, users can also choose a default mapping application.
This feature is currently being made available to all WhatsApp users—not limited to those in the beta program. You can download WhatsApp for free from the App Store. Ensure you update to the latest version of the app to access these new functionalities.
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