With the latest iOS 18.2 update, Apple has finally allowed iPhone users to set third-party apps as their default for calls and messages. Now, WhatsApp has rolled out support for this feature, meaning you can make WhatsApp your go-to app for calls and texts on your iPhone.
Caption – iPhone users can now set WhatsApp as their default app for messages and calls. (Image credit – @WABetaInfo on X)
As first spotted by trusted WhatsApp Beta source WABetaInfo, the newest WhatsApp update for iOS now supports default app selection. This means that when you tap a phone number, your iPhone will automatically use WhatsApp instead of the built-in Phone app to make the call.
📝 WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.8.10.74: what’s new?
WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to set it as the default app for messages and calls, and it’s available to some beta testers!https://t.co/7CHWS8a9wu pic.twitter.com/zBmo2pYjSc
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) March 27, 2025
While this feature was introduced mainly to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple has made it available to all users worldwide.
Besides calls and messages, iOS now lets you choose default apps for email, call filtering, web browsing, translation, passwords, payments (in some regions), keyboards, and even maps (only in the EU).
The WhatsApp update is rolling out to all iPhone users, not just beta testers.
You’ll need an iPhone running iOS 18.2 and WhatsApp v25.8.74. If you meet these requirements, follow these steps –
Once set, WhatsApp will handle all default calls and messages.
If you tap on a phone number in Safari, Messages, Mail, Notes, or other apps, your iPhone will open WhatsApp instead of the built-in Phone, Messages, or FaceTime apps.
Apple has always been strict about default app selection typically favouring its own services. However, due to increasing regulatory pressure especially from the EU’s DMA, Apple has had to make these changes to avoid being labeled anti-competitive.
This update also has big implications for markets like the USA, where the divide between iMessage’s blue bubbles and WhatsApp’s green bubbles has been a long-standing issue.
While it’s unclear how this will impact iMessage’s dominance, iPhone users now have more control over their messaging experience, making communication seamless across iOS and Android.
Answer. Users need an iPhone running iOS 18.2 and WhatsApp v25.8.74. Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps, then select WhatsApp for Messaging and Calling.
Answer. Apple introduced this change to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), addressing concerns about anti-competitive practices. The feature is now available globally.
Answer. It enhances messaging control, enabling seamless communication across iOS and Android. It may also impact iMessage’s dominance in markets like the USA.
Also Read: iOS 19 Will Bring Major Texting Upgrades and a Fresh Design Overhaul: Report
Also Read: iPhone Users Report Rapid Battery Drain After iOS 18 Update
Also Read: WhatsApp Beta Tests Online User Counter and Reminder Notifications
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