Telcos, watch out. Not long after launching a capacity for voice calls for Android users, WhatsApp has released a voice calling feature for iOS devices.
WhatsApp Calling is being launched with the 2.12.1 version of the WhatsApp app, providing users with essentially free calls to anyone in the world. The service will use one’s internet connection, using Wi-Fi or data connection, to replace their mobile plan’s voice minutes.
Emergency numbers will not be able to be contacted using WhatsApp Calling, so keep that in mind.
When calls are coming through, a user will receive a notification. Don’t expect your iPhone to start singing and vibrating as per a usual call. “You will only be able to answer calls when WhatsApp is open,” WhatsApp Calling’s FAQ page reads.
This marks quite a big move forward for the Facebook-owned app, which sees around 30 billion messages sent every single day. That’s quite a big number; it’s no wonder Facebook forked out $16 billion in its acquisition of the company, including $4 billion in cash and approximately $12 billion worth of Facebook shares.
Other new features coming with version 2.12.1 of WhatsApp includes an iOS 8 share extension, which allows users to share photos, videos, and links directly from other apps, and the ability to easily access the camera and camera roll during WhatsApp chats.
While version 2.12.1 is currently available for download on iTunes, a WhatsApp note reads: “WhatsApp Calling is rolling out slowly over the next several weeks.”
