WhatsApp Default on iPhone
- iPhone users can now designate WhatsApp as their default submission for both calls and text messages.
- The latest version of WhatsApp for iOS, version 25.8.74, activates support for this option.
- While the option to choose default applications was developed in response to changes pushed by the European Union, Apple has extended this functionality to all users globally.
WhatsApp Update Allows iPhone Users to Set as Default Calling and Messaging App
Table of Contents
Published March 28, 2025
iPhone users can now designate WhatsApp as their default submission for both calls and text messages. With the release of iOS 18.2, apple introduced a feature enabling users to select third-party apps as the default for these functions. WhatsApp has updated its iOS app to support this feature.
The latest version of WhatsApp for iOS, version 25.8.74, activates support for this option. Once a new default application is selected, it will automatically be used for associated actions. For example, tapping a phone number on an iPhone can now initiate a call via WhatsApp rather of the iPhone’s native phone application.
While the option to choose default applications was developed in response to changes pushed by the European Union, Apple has extended this functionality to all users globally.
changing Default Applications
Beyond calls and messages, iPhone users can also select default applications for email, call filtering, web browsing, translation, passwords, payments (in select regions), and keyboards. In the European Union, users can also change the default card application.
The feature is rolling out to all WhatsApp users. WhatsApp is available for free in the App Store. Users should update to the latest version to access these new features.
WhatsApp on iPhone: Your New Default Calling and Messaging App – Q&A
can I Use WhatsApp as My Default Calling and Texting App on iPhone?
Yes! iPhone users can now set WhatsApp as their default submission for both calls and text messages. This functionality was introduced with the release of iOS 18.2 and is supported by the latest WhatsApp update.
how Does This Feature Work?
With the latest version of WhatsApp for iOS (version 25.8.74),you can choose to have WhatsApp handle the default calling and messaging functions on your iPhone. Once selected, your iPhone will automatically use WhatsApp for these actions. As an example, tapping a phone number will initiate a call through WhatsApp rather of the native Phone app.
Why Was This Feature Developed?
Apple extended this functionality to all users globally, though it was developed in response to changes pushed by the European Union.
What Else Can I Set as a Default Application on My iPhone?
Beyond calls and messages, you can also choose default apps for various other functions on your iPhone including:
Email: Set your preferred email app.
Call Filtering: Choose a third-party app for call filtering.
Web Browsing: Select your preferred web browser.
Translation: Choose a translation app.
Passwords: Choose your password management app.
payments: (In select regions) select a default payment app.
Keyboards: Choose your preferred keyboard application.
Card Application: (In the European Union) Change the default card application.
How do I Get this Feature?
To access this feature, ensure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on your iPhone. WhatsApp is available for free on the App Store. Update your app to the latest version, 25.8.74, to take advantage of these new capabilities.
Summary of Default App Options
| Function | Default app Options (Along with native iOS apps) |
| ——————– | —————————————————- |
| Calls and Messages | WhatsApp |
| Email | Third-party email apps |
| Call Filtering | Third-party call filter apps |
| Web browsing | Third-party web browsers |
| Translation | Third-party translation apps |
| Passwords | Third-party password managers |
| payments | Third-party payment apps (in select regions) |
| keyboards | Third-party keyboard apps |
| Card Application | third-party card apps (EU) |