Truecaller Brings Real-Time Caller ID and Spam Blocking to iPhone with Major Update

Truecaller has rolled out its most significant update yet for iPhone, addressing a long-standing gap between its iOS and Android apps by introducing long-awaited features. For the first time, the Truecaller app on iOS now supports real-time caller ID and automated spam call blocking—features that Android users have enjoyed for years.

Real-Time Caller ID and Enhanced Features

As the name suggests, the real-time caller ID feature displays identification details when you receive a call from an unknown number. For instance, the feature can show the caller’s name stored in Truecaller’s extensive database and, when possible, provide their location. This update significantly enhances the functionality of the iOS app, which had been previously restricted by Apple’s limitations on third-party caller ID apps.

Truecaller explained in a press release that these new features became possible thanks to under-the-hood changes introduced in the iOS 18 update released last year. While the company had previously added Live Caller ID to iOS, its effectiveness was limited due to iPhone’s handling of third-party apps.

“The functionality of Truecaller’s Caller ID on iOS has historically been limited to a smaller local database on the user’s local device. This update can leverage Truecaller’s latest AI capabilities and global database to identify as many calls as possible,” the company stated.

Apple’s Contribution: The Live Caller ID Lookup Framework

Apple played a key role in enabling this update by developing the Live Caller ID Lookup framework. This framework allows apps to provide live caller ID functionality securely and in a privacy-preserving manner. Truecaller claims to be the first app to implement this API at such a massive scale, highlighting its commitment to innovation and user experience.

Why the Update Matters

Truecaller’s iOS users currently make up a significant part of its user base, with over 30 million iPhone users (7% of its 435 million monthly active users). Importantly, iPhone users contribute heavily to the company’s revenue, with 750,000 of its 2.5 million paying subscribers on iOS. These iOS subscribers account for over 40% of Truecaller’s premium services revenue. Given these figures, it’s clear why Truecaller prioritized enhancing its iOS app.

How to Enable the New Features

To activate Truecaller’s Live Caller ID and spam-blocking features on your iPhone, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification.
2. Enable all toggle switches.
3. Reopen the Truecaller app to ensure the changes take effect.

It’s worth noting that Live Caller ID and spam-blocking features are part of Truecaller’s premium subscription. Pricing starts at $9.99 per month or $74.99 per year for individual users.

Looking Ahead

This update marks a significant milestone for Truecaller, demonstrating its ability to adapt and innovate in response to platform-specific challenges. With Apple’s improved framework and Truecaller’s advanced AI capabilities, iPhone users can now enjoy a seamless and secure caller ID experience.

For more details, check out the full announcement here.

via