The Struggles of Truecaller on iPhone

Previously, Truecaller utilized a system where incoming caller IDs were checked against a real-time database of known spammers. While Android users enjoyed the benefits of automatically rejecting or blocking these unwanted calls, iPhone users faced significant hurdles. Apple's privacy policies classified incoming call numbers as personal data, preventing Truecaller from sending these numbers for verification against its comprehensive databases. Instead, iOS users only received updates from less effective offline databases created intermittently.

iOS 18.2: A Game Changer

The much-anticipated iOS 18.2 introduces a groundbreaking Live Caller ID Lookup API specifically designed for applications like Truecaller. This technological advancement encrypts incoming caller numbers on the user's phone, sends the encrypted data to Truecaller’s servers, and returns an encrypted response that can be decrypted locally. This means that now the Truecaller app can conduct real-time checks against an up-to-date global database of known spammers while respecting user privacy.

Exciting New Features

In addition to real-time caller identification, the latest Truecaller update includes a highly requested feature: automatic blocking of spam calls. This functionality means users can now actively avoid unwanted interruptions. Other noteworthy enhancements include a search option that allows users to review their call history, tracing back up to 2,000 recent numbers for better tracking and management.

Availability and User Setup

This new version of Truecaller is being rolled out globally over the coming days. To enable this powerful new functionality, iPhone users should ensure they have Truecaller version 14.0 or later installed. The enabling process involves adjusting settings under iPhone Settings > Apps > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification, ensuring all Truecaller switches are activated. It’s a straightforward process that promises to dramatically enhance the calling experience.

What’s Next?

In a statement reflecting on this pivotal update, Truecaller’s CEO, Rishit Jhunjhunwala, expressed enthusiasm about the app's potential growth within the iPhone community, stating, “This update brings Truecaller to parity with Android, fulfilling one of the top wishes of our iPhone users while maintaining privacy during all calling activities.”