WhatsApp is among the most widely used messaging apps worldwide, offering both texting and calling capabilities. While calling features can be useful for many, not everyone wants to receive or make calls through WhatsApp. This is especially true for users who want to conserve data, reduce distractions, or prevent unwanted communication. Unfortunately, WhatsApp does not currently provide a built-in option to completely disable calling, but there are a few workarounds and tricks users can apply to minimize or restrict this feature.
Why Users May Want to Disable WhatsApp Calling
While the calling feature can be helpful, below are a few common reasons why users may wish to disable it:
- Frequent unwanted or spam calls from unknown people
- Disruption during work or study hours
- Limited mobile data plans
- Battery saving considerations
Whatever the reason may be, understanding the available options can help users reduce interruptions.
Workarounds to Disable or Restrict Calling
Although WhatsApp does not have a formal toggle to disable calling, several workarounds can help minimize its usage effectively.
1. Use Do Not Disturb Mode
This option helps stop notifications and ring sounds during incoming WhatsApp calls.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Notifications > Do Not Disturb and enable the feature. Customize it to block only WhatsApp if required.
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > Focus > Do Not Disturb and set up app-specific silencing for WhatsApp.
2. Revoke Microphone Access
Removing microphone permissions can make WhatsApp calls unusable, effectively discouraging users from calling you, and limiting your ability to make calls.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Permissions, then disable the microphone.
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > WhatsApp and toggle off the microphone permission.
This method will not block calls from coming in, but it will prevent conversations from happening due to the lack of microphone input.
3. Mute Calls from Specific Contacts
If the issue stems from only a few individuals, muting specific contacts helps prevent call alerts from disturbing you.
Here’s how:
- Open the chat with the contact
- Tap on the contact’s name at the top
- Select Mute notifications and choose a desired duration
4. Use Modified Versions (Caution Advised)
There are third-party modified versions of WhatsApp like WhatsApp Plus or GBWhatsApp that offer custom features, including disabling call components. However, these come with risks:
- Privacy concerns
- Possibility of WhatsApp account ban
- Malware and data leaks
Use at your own risk and avoid installing from unofficial sources.
5. Set Call Notifications to Silent
Even if you can’t completely block the calls, setting the call ringtone to silent and disabling vibrations can make incoming calls less intrusive.
- Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Notifications
- Tap on Call Notifications
- Set the ringtone to None and vibration to Off
Helpful Tips for Minimizing WhatsApp Calls
- Switch to messaging-only communication when possible
- Let contacts know that you’re not available for calls via status or messages
- Disable WhatsApp background activity to limit call rings when the app isn’t active
While none of these options provide a “one-click” solution to turning off WhatsApp calls, using a combination of them can help users control their exposure to calls effectively.
FAQs
- Q: Can I permanently turn off calling in WhatsApp?
A: WhatsApp does not offer a native option to fully disable calling. Users must apply workarounds. - Q: Will revoking microphone access stop WhatsApp calls?
A: No, it won’t stop calls, but it prevents conversations by disabling audio input. - Q: Is using modified WhatsApp versions safe?
A: Modified versions pose privacy and security risks and may result in account bans from WhatsApp. - Q: Can I block only one person from calling me?
A: Yes, you can mute or block that contact to prevent notifications or calls from them. - Q: Will setting call ringtones to silent affect other app notifications?
A: No, this setting only applies to WhatsApp call notifications.
Though WhatsApp calls cannot be fully disabled by default, utilizing combinations of settings, permissions, and behavioral preferences can help users gain better control over their calling experience.
