Amidst the increase in spam calls from unknown numbers on WhatsApp, Meta has introduced a new feature that allows users to automatically mute such calls on the platform. According to the Meta Channel on Instagram, this new feature will make WhatsApp even more private and give users more control.
This feature has been in beta testing for a while, and the stable version is now available for Android and iOS smartphone users. When enabled via the privacy settings menu, the app will automatically silence calls from unknown numbers.
Make sure you have installed the latest version of WhatsApp on your phone or update it through the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. We were able to use this feature on phones like the Galaxy S23 Ultra and the Realme 11 Pro+ with the stable version of WhatsApp.
Open WhatsApp
Click on the kebab menu in the top right corner
Go to settings
Click on Privacy
Select calls
Enable “Silence Unknown Callers”
To coincide with this new privacy feature, WhatsApp has partnered with actor Anushka Sharma to launch a series of mirrored messages appearing in private spaces - women’s restrooms - in malls across Delhi.
A message will appear on the restroom mirror when triggered by motion, alongside a QR code that offers suggestions for checking in via a private WhatsApp message. Afterwards, the message vanishes without a trace, just like a Disappearing Message on WhatsApp.
Commenting on the launch of the campaign, Actor, Anushka Sharma, said, “Women don’t always feel safe to speak up about issues they’re facing, however they tend to open up with a friend who reaches out to them, privately. I’ve partnered with WhatsApp to drive awareness around the importance of having a secure space for women to confide in others and how a private conversation can be empowering for women to speak up and seek help when their safety and well-being might be at risk. I truly feel it is important to check in on a friend, colleague, loved one, especially if you haven’t heard from them in a while and that one private message can be a lifeline. I am happy to be a part of this campaign that can be a safe space for women to open up.”
Meta has been adding new features to WhatsApp almost every week. The company recently introduced WhatsApp channels in select markets, and WhatsApp also gained the ability to edit sent messages for up to 15 minutes.