WhatsApp, a Meta-owned messaging platform, tests new features regularly to improve the user experience. In this series, the company is rolling out an in-app dialer for Android beta users. According to WABetaInfo, the company is testing the dialer in the Android “2.24.13.17” beta build. The in-app dialer is rolling to beta testers and will be available to more users in the coming weeks.
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The feature can help improve the calling experience on the platform and help limit the need to save a contact in some cases. According to the report, the feature is being tested with a larger audience after being spotted in development in April 2024. Beta users may get a floating button within the “Calls” tab. Testers must update their app to the latest version to check if the option is rolling out in their build.
In the screengrab shared in the report, the dialer icon is visible above the green new call button. Tapping the icon may open a dialer with the necessary buttons to make a call, eliminating the need to save a number or call via the chat screen. After entering a mobile number, users can save it as a new contact or an existing one (in a previous contact card).
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The message icon in the dialer will also allow easy messaging of the respective phone number if the contact is on WhatsApp. This can enable faster calling and saving contacts to the phonebook for easier accessibility. The feature also notifies users if the mobile number entered in the dialer has a WhatsApp account.
Meanwhile, the company is also developing AR features for call effects and filters on Android. This will allow users to add interactive elements in video calls. These may include dynamic facial filters, low-light mode and background editing. Users may also get the option to use their avatar during calls.
