Deactivating WhatsApp calls : iPhone & Android guide

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, offering various features, including voice and video calls. However, for privacy reasons or personal preference, some users may wish to disable WhatsApp video messages while others want to disable the call feature. In this article, we provide tips for disabling WhatsApp calls on Android and iPhone devices.

Disabling WhatsApp calls on Android

Even though WhatsApp does not offer a native option to disable calls, there are other methods to work around this limitation.

Using an older version of WhatsApp

WhatsApp VoIP calls are a recent feature. To remove this option:

1. Open the WhatsApp app;
2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner, then select "Settings";
3. Under "Chats," select "Chat backup" and perform a backup by clicking "Back up."
4. Go to the Google Play Store and download an earlier version of WhatsApp, ideally 2.12.4 or earlier;
5. When you open this version, choose to restore your discussions and media.

Note: This method has its limitations, as over time, it is likely that the use of obsolete versions will no longer be supported.

Use of a third-party application

An alternative is to use GBWhatsApp, a modified version of WhatsApp:

1. Download and install GBWhatsApp ;
2. Restore your saved chats and media ;
3. Tap the three vertical dots, then tap "GB Settings";
4. Select "Other MODS," then "Disable voice calls."

Disabling WhatsApp calls on iPhone

The iOS platform doesn't offer a direct method of disabling WhatsApp calls. However, here are a few solutions to minimize disruption.

Activate mute mode

You can put your iPhone in silent mode to avoid being disturbed by calls—it's that simple. As you can see, this doesn't actually block calls.

Use the "Do Not Disturb" mode

Do Not Disturb (DND) mode allows you to reduce interruptions by silencing calls, alerts, and notifications.

1. Drag down to access the control center ;
2. Tap the crescent moon icon to activate DND mode.
3. For specific settings, go to "Settings" and select "Do Not Disturb Mode."

We hope these methods will help you personalize your email experience to your preferences, and always remain vigilant to avoid the WhatsApp hacking.

See also our guide to where to find the WhatsApp recycle garbage can if you wish to retrieve deleted messages from your account.