WhatsApp is working on a new call screening feature for the Android app. Through this, if a call is received from an unknown number, the app will be able to ask the reason from the caller and the user will be able to take a decision by reading the transcript of the answer.
Tech: WhatsApp is developing a new call screening feature to improve the privacy and calling experience of its users. Under this feature, if a call is received from an unknown number, the app will be able to ask the caller the reason for calling. Users will be able to decide whether to answer the call by reading the text transcript of the response. Currently this feature is being developed for the Android app and its release date has not been announced.
Before picking up an unknown call, you will be able to know the reason for calling.
WhatsApp is preparing to make new changes in its calling system. According to the report, the company is working on a feature with the help of which calls coming from unknown numbers can be screened first. Under this, the app will be able to ask the person calling for what purpose he is calling.
The purpose of this feature is to give users advance information about unknown calls, so that without directly picking up the call, they can understand whether the phone has come for urgent work or not. This can also help in identifying suspicious and unwanted calls.
This feature may be different from WhatsApp's existing option to silence unknown calls. According to the report, it is currently being developed for Android app. Right now the company has not even released it for beta users and there is no official announcement regarding the launch date.
Three options can be found for call filtering
According to the report, the call filtering menu in the privacy section of WhatsApp can be updated with new options. In this, users can get the option to choose three settings as per their need.
The first option can be 'Never'. By selecting this, call filtering will be stopped and calls will come normally.
The second option will be 'Silence'. By selecting this setting, the ringtone of calls coming from unknown numbers will be turned off. However, call information may appear in the Calls tab and notifications.
The third option will be 'Ask reason for calling'. By selecting this, WhatsApp will be able to ask the reason for the call from the person calling from an unknown number. After receiving the reply, the user will be able to decide based on the available information whether to answer the call or disconnect it.
A transcript of the caller's response will also be visible
An important feature of this feature can be a text transcript of the caller's response. Through this, users will be able to read the answer on the screen before picking up the call and try to understand the purpose for which the call is made.
For example, if an unknown person is calling for some urgent work, the user can decide to answer the call after reading his/her reply. At the same time, if the answer seems suspicious or the reason for the call is not clear, then they can also ignore the call.
However, this feature is currently said to be in the development stage. Changes are possible in its final form, availability and way of working. Its launch timeline and other details will be confirmed only after the official announcement by WhatsApp.