WhatsApp working on flash call feature for verification

WhatsApp is testing a new feature to verify phone numbers when logging into a new or different device. WhatsApp currently lets users verify their phone number by sending a verification code via SMS. The new feature will let WhatsApp make a call to verify the phone number. This feature is reportedly called “Flash Call” and it’s currently under development.

WhatsApp will show a pop-up screen with a permission asking access to your phone’s call log, according to WABetaInfo. Once you give permission, WhatsApp will make a call to verify your phone number. This will be a flash call as WhatsApp will only check if the phone number is valid. This verification process is used by Truecaller. In the screenshot shared by WABetaInfo, the feature is explained as - “For automatic verification over call, WhatsApp needs permission to make and manage phone calls and read your call logs.”

This is optional though and users can choose to verify their phone number through the SMS process. Users can choose to give WhatsApp permission by selecting “continue” or deny by selecting “not now”. Then, the original process of verification by sending a code via SMS will be done. WhatsApp always asks for verification of your phone number when switching to a new device or a different one. The new feature will give users another option to verify their WhatsApp phone number.

WhatsApp is currently developing this feature, and it’s not visible to users in the public beta program. There’s no word on when it will roll out the feature to all users.