Last month, it was first reported that WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow easy verification of mobile numbers.
The feature — called Flash Calls — was spotted by WABetaInfo.
The Flash Calls feature essentially aims to allow users to automatically verify their phone number using an automatic verification method over call when they try to log into WhatsApp.
Now, in a fresh development, WABetaInfo has spotted an “introduction screen” for the Flash Calls feature which shows that WhatsApp will require permission to “make and manage calls” as well as “access phone’s call log” in order to use this feature.
Due to this, WABetaInfo has claimed that Flash Calls feature may not be rolled out to iPhone users.
“Apple doesn’t offer any public API to read the call history,” says WABetaInfo in its report.
Explaining the purpose of accessing the call log, WABetaInfo said, “WhatsApp will just compare the last entry from your call history with the phone number that’s supposed to call you.
This feature will not be used for other situations.” The Flash Calls feature, even if it is rolled out to Android users, will remain optional.
WhatsApp users will continue to have the option to use the 6-digit code received via SMS or call to confirm their number to the instant messaging app.
There is no word on when the Flash Calls feature will be rolled out to Android users as it is currently under development.
This feature was first spotted in the Android beta version 2.21.11.7 of the app.
With this feature, WhatsApp will reduce the risks of cases of frauds where WhatsApp users end up losing access to their accounts after they shared a six-digit verification code received on the platform with someone claiming to be from the company.