WhatsApp continues to expand its calling features, making it easier for users to communicate seamlessly. One useful function available on the app is the call waiting feature, which allows users to handle incoming calls even when they are already engaged in a voice or video call. This feature works similarly to traditional call waiting on mobile networks and gives users control over how they want to respond to a second call.
With billions of people relying on WhatsApp for communication, understanding how this feature works can help improve your calling experience. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide explaining how to use call waiting on WhatsApp, along with additional tips for managing incoming calls and privacy settings.
What Is the Call Waiting Feature on WhatsApp?
The call waiting feature notifies you when another person tries to call you while you are already on an active WhatsApp call. Instead of automatically switching calls, the app gives you the option to decide what to do next.
When a new call comes in, you can:
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End the current call and answer the incoming call
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Decline the incoming call and continue your ongoing conversation
This flexibility ensures that your current call is not interrupted unless you choose to switch.
What Happens When Someone Calls You on WhatsApp
If you are already on a WhatsApp call and another WhatsApp call comes in, you will see a notification on your screen. At this point, you have two choices:
1. Answer the New Call
You can tap the option that ends the current call and connects you to the new caller.
2. Decline the Incoming Call
You can reject the incoming call and continue speaking with the person you are already connected to.
WhatsApp does not automatically change calls for you. The decision always remains in your hands.
When You Receive a Call From Another App
Sometimes you may be on a WhatsApp voice or video call and receive a call from a different application or your phone’s regular calling service. In such cases, the process works in a similar way.
You can:
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Accept the incoming call and end the WhatsApp call
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Reject the incoming call and stay on the WhatsApp call
This allows you to decide which call is more important at that moment.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
While WhatsApp calls are made using internet data, there are a few factors users should be aware of:
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Your mobile network operator may charge for calls made through other apps or standard phone calls.
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If you are roaming or have exceeded your data limit, your internet provider might apply additional charges for voice or video calls.
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Blocking a contact will prevent them from calling you on WhatsApp.
Understanding these details can help you avoid unexpected charges and manage calls more effectively.
How to Mute Calls From Unknown Numbers on WhatsApp
WhatsApp allows anyone who has your phone number to call you, even if they are not saved in your contacts. To reduce unwanted calls, the app provides an option to mute calls from unknown callers.
Follow these steps to enable the feature:
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Open WhatsApp on your phone.
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Tap Settings.
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Go to Privacy.
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Select Calls.
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Turn Mute Unknown Callers on or off.
Once this setting is enabled, calls from unknown numbers will still appear in the Calls tab and notifications, but your phone will not ring. This helps minimize disturbances while still allowing you to review missed calls later.
Why This Feature Is Useful
The call waiting function is particularly helpful for users who rely on WhatsApp for both personal and professional communication. It ensures you do not miss important calls while you are already talking to someone else.
By giving users full control over how to manage incoming calls, WhatsApp makes multitasking during conversations easier and more efficient.
As online communication continues to evolve, features like call waiting add more convenience to messaging apps. Knowing how to use these options can help you manage calls more smoothly and maintain better control over your conversations.
Whether you are handling work discussions or staying connected with family and friends, WhatsApp’s call waiting feature ensures that you remain informed about incoming calls without disrupting your current conversation unless you choose to switch.
