Unwanted calls from unfamiliar numbers could soon become easier to manage on WhatsApp. The messaging platform is reportedly developing a new call filtering feature for Android that may let users screen unknown callers before deciding whether to answer.
The feature was spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.41.4. It remains under development and is not yet available for beta testing.
3 options to manage incoming calls
The feature is expected to offer 3 choices in WhatsApp’s privacy settings.
- “Never”: Call filtering would be disabled, allowing notifications for calls from both saved and unknown numbers.
- Silence unknown callers: Calls from unsaved numbers would be silenced. They would still appear in the Calls tab and notifications, but the phone would not ring.
- Screen unknown callers: WhatsApp could automatically answer calls from unknown numbers and ask callers to explain why they are calling. The app would then create a transcript of their response so users can review it before deciding whether to continue the call.
The screening option could help users avoid unnecessary interruptions without missing important calls from numbers they have not saved.
On-device transcription may protect privacy
The feature is reportedly designed to generate transcripts directly on the user’s device using language packs. This would avoid sending audio to WhatsApp’s servers for transcription. Users may also be able to select the language used for the transcript.
According to the report, on-device processing is intended to protect privacy and support WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption.
Apple introduced a similar call screening experience with iOS 26, and WhatsApp appears to be exploring comparable functionality for Android users.
Release date remains unknown
WhatsApp has not announced an official release date. The feature may first reach selected beta testers through a future update before a wider rollout.
If introduced, it could give users more control over unknown calls while helping reduce spam and unwanted interruptions.
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