WhatsApp is developing a call filtering feature for the Android app
WhatsApp is working on improving the silence unknown callers feature with new tools. Specifically, users will be able to decide whether the app should ask the caller why they are calling. The recipient will read its private transcript before deciding whether to answer.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature: | Call filtering |
| Status: | Under development |
| Availability info: | This feature is currently in development and not yet available for beta testing. |
| Previous news: | WhatsApp is testing an in-app browser for chats on iOS! |
WhatsApp introduced the silence unknown callers feature on Android
In the post about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.10.7 update, we announced the silence unknown callers feature. With this functionality, WhatsApp automatically silences calls from phone numbers that are not saved in the address book. WhatsApp still shows the call in the Calls tab, so users are always aware that someone tried to call. This makes it easier for users to block spam calls and avoid unwanted interruptions.
WhatsApp is developing more advanced call filtering options
WhatsApp lets users decide whether to silence unknown callers from the privacy screen. However, this feature applies the same rule to any unknown caller. If users receive an important call from an unknown caller, they will lose it without a second chance to respond. WhatsApp is finally working on a new feature that gives users a choice. We discovered this with the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.41.4 update, which is available on the Google Play Store. With this update, WhatsApp is testing a new call filtering feature with three different options. This feature will replace the existing one to give users more control over how the app manages unknown callers.
How the three call filtering options work
In the future, users will find the new call filtering feature right within the privacy section. Here, WhatsApp will let users choose what happens when unknown numbers call. The first option is "Never", which disables the call filtering feature. This means that WhatsApp will notify any call, regardless of whether the phone number is saved or not. The second option silences calls from unknown numbers automatically. They still appear in the Calls tab and push notifications, but WhatsApp prevents the phone from ringing. With the third option, WhatsApp will answer the call to ask the caller why they are calling. WhatsApp will generate a private transcript of the caller's response, so the user can read it and decide whether to answer.
How the private transcription works
WhatsApp does not share the call with its servers to generate the transcript. Instead, WhatsApp generates it locally on the device using language packs. This is the same technology used for voice message transcriptions and message translations. This means that nothing from the call leaves the device. With language packs, WhatsApp also preserves end-to-end encryption, since the app generates the transcription on the device. Users will also be able to choose the language used for the transcription.
Apple introduced the same feature with iOS 26
WhatsApp is not the first company to launch this feature. Apple introduced the call screening feature with iOS 26 to help users handle calls from unknown numbers. When an unknown number calls an iPhone, the device answers automatically and asks the caller to share why they're calling. The device automatically transcribes the response, so the user can then decide whether to answer. WhatsApp is now working on bringing the same experience to Android users.
Why this update is an important improvement over the current feature
The silence unknown callers feature blocks every unknown caller without giving them a chance to say who they are. Although it's useful to prevent spam calls, users may miss important calls from delivery drivers, doctors, or anyone else. With the new feature, WhatsApp will make it easier for users to decide which calls deserve their attention. As a result, users can give legitimate callers a chance to explain why they are calling. WhatsApp will still keep the silence option for users who prefer no exceptions.
WhatsApp is developing call filtering for a future Android update
The new call filtering feature is currently under development on Android. Since it's in development, it is not available yet. WhatsApp will release it to some beta testers in a future update. At the moment, WhatsApp has not announced when this feature will be available to the public.
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