Truecaller, the popular caller identification and spam blocking app, has finally brought its real-time caller ID feature to iPhone users. This long-awaited addition significantly enhances the iOS experience, providing users with instant information about incoming calls, similar to what Android users have enjoyed for some time.
Real-Time Caller ID Arrives on iOS
The availability of real-time caller ID on iOS is a direct result of Apple's introduction of Live Caller ID Lookup in iOS 18. This new feature allows third-party caller ID apps like Truecaller to securely query their servers for caller information during an incoming call.
A Significant Milestone for Truecaller
This release marks a significant milestone for Truecaller, coming shortly after co-founders Alan Mamedi and Nami Zarringhalam stepped down from their day-to-day roles in November 2024.
iOS's Importance to Truecaller's Business
While Truecaller boasts over 2.6 million paying subscribers, a substantial portion (around 40%) of its premium revenue originates from iOS subscriptions, despite having only 750,000 iOS subscribers. Furthermore, Truecaller observes a 5X higher conversion rate to its premium tier on iOS compared to Android, with iOS subscribers generating 80% more revenue.
Overcoming iOS Limitations
Prior to iOS 18, Truecaller faced limitations on iOS, primarily relying on a locally stored database of phone numbers. This restricted the app's ability to provide comprehensive and up-to-date caller information.
Addressing Indian Market Challenges
The Indian market presents unique challenges for Truecaller, including the emergence of "Calling Name Presentation" (CNAP), a service designed to curb spam calls. CNAP, currently being rolled out by local telecom operators, could potentially emerge as a competitor to Truecaller's services.
Technical Innovations
To enable real-time caller ID on iOS, Truecaller has implemented several technical advancements:
- New Server Architecture: A dedicated server architecture was built to handle the increased data flow and real-time requests.
- Encrypted Database for iOS: A separate, encrypted database was created specifically for iOS, ensuring data security and privacy.
- Homomorphic Encryption: Truecaller utilizes homomorphic encryption, allowing computations to be performed on encrypted data without the need for decryption, enhancing security and privacy.
- Database Synchronization: A robust system was developed to synchronize data between the iOS and Android databases, ensuring consistent caller information across platforms.
User Experience and Future Enhancements
User Interface: The iOS app interface has been updated to display the caller's name prominently in bold over their phone number.
Image Support: Truecaller is currently working on integrating image support for caller ID on iOS, further enhancing the user experience.
Pricing and Availability
Premium Subscription: Truecaller's premium tier for iOS starts at $9.99 per month or $74.99 per year for individual users.
Family Plan: The family plan is available starting at $14.99 per month or $99.99 per year.
Gold Subscription: The top-tier Gold subscription is priced at $249 per year.
Enabling Live Caller ID Lookup:
Users can enable the Live Caller ID Lookup feature through the following steps:
- Go to iPhone Settings.
- Navigate to Apps.
- Select Phone.
- Tap on Call Blocking & Identification.
Conclusion
Truecaller's introduction of real-time caller ID on iOS marks a significant step forward for the app and its users. By leveraging Apple's Live Caller ID Lookup feature and implementing innovative technical solutions, Truecaller has enhanced the iOS experience and strengthened its position in the competitive caller identification market.
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