WhatsApp Now Available as Default App for Calls and Messages on iPhone

Apple's iOS 18.2 update enables WhatsApp to replace native Phone and Messages apps, with the feature now globally accessible.

WhatsApp users can now set the app as the default for calls and messages on iPhones running iOS 18.2 or later.
This marks the first time a major third-party app has replaced Apple's native Phone and Messages apps as defaults.
The feature, initially introduced in beta, is now available globally with WhatsApp's latest update, version 25.8.74.
Users can configure the default settings through the iPhone's Settings menu under 'Default Apps' for messaging and calling.
The change is expected to enhance convenience, especially in regions like Asia and Europe where WhatsApp is widely used.