- Apple now allows you to set WhatsApp as the default app for calls and messages on iOS 18.2 and later.
- This option is available since WhatsApp version 25.8.10.74, both in beta and in some stable versions.
- Users can configure this feature from their iPhone settings by selecting WhatsApp from the default options.
- It falls within the requirements of the EU Digital Markets Act, which requires greater openness of platforms.
iPhone users are beginning to notice significant changes in the way they interact with their device, especially when it comes to choosing default apps. With the arrival of iOS 18.2 and its successive updates, Apple has begun to allow the use of third-party apps as the default option for certain system functions, including messaging and calling. One of the most notable beneficiaries of this measure is WhatsApp., which can now be selected as the default app to manage these tasks.
This new possibility has emerged primarily as Apple's response to the requirements established by the European Union through its Digital Markets Act, a regulation that requires large technology companies to offer a greater degree of openness in their ecosystems. As a result, more and more users in Europe and other regions can customize their iPhone experience, choosing tools other than those Apple offers by default.
WhatsApp as default: what it means and how to enable it
With version 25.8.10.74 of WhatsApp for iOS, the app Now it can be fully integrated as the primary communication tool on the iPhone.. This means that when you tap a phone number from your phonebook or a system app, your device will open WhatsApp directly to send messages or make calls, instead of using the native Phone or Messages apps. For those who want to customize their experience, learn how to Change your profile picture on WhatsApp on iPhone can be a good start.
The process to activate this functionality is relatively simple. The steps to follow on the iPhone are as follows:
- Access the application of Phone settings.
- Enter the section called “Apps".
- Select the option “Default applications".
- Within the menus of “Messaging” and “Calls”, choose WhatsApp as application to use by default.
This setting is available for devices running iOS 18.2 or higher. and initially appeared in the beta version of WhatsApp distributed through TestFlight. However, some users with the official App Store version have also begun seeing this feature, indicating that its rollout is already underway for the general public. In the meantime, users can explore other options such as change whatsapp background to further personalize your experience.
The main source that detected this new feature was WABetaInfo, a regular source for revealing new features for the Meta platform. According to this media, the feature appears both in the beta and in some cases within the stable version., although its availability may vary depending on the location and status of the deployment.
Beyond Europe: progressive expansion to other territories
Although Apple's new policies initially emerged to comply with European regulations, This functionality has not been limited to the member countries of the European Union.In places like Mexico, the ability to use WhatsApp as the default app for calls and messages even outside the beta program has now been officially enabled, as confirmed by Xataka Mexico. Additionally, learning how to add stickers to WhatsApp remains a creative option for all users.
The change is significant in terms of user experience. Being able to choose WhatsApp as your primary option means not only avoiding the use of iMessage and the Phone app, but also having direct access to additional functions such as sending voice notes, photos, videos, documents, and international calls via data, without additional operator costs.
Additionally, the integration will allow system applications or contact links on web pages to redirect the user directly to WhatsApp, thus simplifying the communication process and reducing the need to switch between applications. Users can also benefit from learning how to select multiple photos in WhatsApp to share multiple images at once.
Beta or stable version: Who can use this feature and when will it be available to everyone?
Today, the function continues in its deployment phaseUsers who are part of WhatsApp's TestFlight program, which is designed to test beta versions, already have guaranteed access to this feature. However, as has been the case with other new features on the platform, several users outside the testing program have also begun receiving it on their devices.
Currently, getting into the beta program is complicated because The WhatsApp version in TestFlight is complete.This means that new participants cannot join until spots become available. Despite this, the fact that the feature has begun to be enabled in stable versions is a clear indication that its mass rollout could occur in the coming weeks or months. In the meantime, many users are looking to learn how to use the feature. change the font in WhatsApp to personalize your messages.
An official date for general availability of this option has not been confirmed by Meta or Apple, but The trend seems to indicate that it will eventually reach all iPhone users with updated versions of iOS and WhatsApp.
On the other hand, it should be clarified that This customization does not prevent you from receiving traditional SMS or conventional calls.That is, even if WhatsApp is set as the default, incoming text messages and calls over the mobile network will continue to arrive through the phone's usual channels.
The ability to set default apps extends beyond messaging and calling. In system settings, You can also customize which apps are used for navigation, password management, email, maps, or even installing apps.For many, this new openness of Apple's operating system represents an improvement in terms of freedom and adaptability to each person's individual use.
The ability to choose WhatsApp as the primary communication tool on iPhone marks a significant shift in Apple's strategy regarding the integration of third-party services into its ecosystem. These measures not only open the operating system to more competition, but also allow users to shape their digital experience based on their actual preferences. Although it is not yet available to everyone, The feature promises to change the way we use iPhones on a daily basis.
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