WhatsApp has, since earlier this month, begun offering free Internet-based calls to users across the world, including those in the UAE.
The social messaging app now allows WhatsApp users on Android and BlackBerry platforms to make VoIP calls to other ‘enabled’ WhatsApp users even as the functionality has been blocked by telecom provider Etisalat in the UAE.
WhatsApp, of course, has still not made any official announcement or confirmation regarding the feature – here in the UAE or elsewhere.
However, the functionality has, so far been unavailable for the iOS platform, and iPhone users haven’t been able to use it even as it is rumoured to be in the works and coming soon.
It was reported that the Voice Calling feature had been added to the iOS platform too, but remains dysfunctional at the moment.
Nevertheless, a new tweak has emerged over the weekend, which will enable this feature on Apple devices too. A new Cydia Tweak called WhatsApp Call Enabler will help you do so.
Do note, however, that installing Cydia can only be done on your 'jailbroken' iPhones and iPads, and that software is not approved by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL).
The new WhatsApp beta 2.12.0.1 for iOS can be downloaded from several sites (beware of spurious links, though), and then look for the WhatsAppCallEnabler Cydia tweak to enable the feature.
Several blogs have listed the links to the latest version, including some spurious ones, that needs to be downloaded for the feature to be activated.
Some reports also maintain that the WhatsApp Voice Calling feature can be enabled on your iPhone without the WhatsAppCallEnabler Cydia tweak.
You’ll have to simply install the WhatsApp 2.12.0.1 beta update on your iPhone and then ask one of your WhatsApp friends on Android or Blackberry (or even early adopters among iOS) that have Voice Calling feature enabled to call you.
Disclaimer: This news article is for information purposes only. Emirates 24|7 does not recommend 'jailbreaking' your devices. Installing Cydia can only be done on your 'jailbroken' iPhones and iPads, and that software is not approved by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL).