WhatsApp is now officially available on the Apple Watch. After years of only displaying notifications, Meta has released a fully functional app for watchOS. Rumors of a native version had recently intensified after initial indications surfaced via TestFlight. Now it's confirmed: WhatsApp is getting full support on the Apple Watch – with new features, improved usability, and a clear focus on user-friendliness.
Until now, WhatsApp on the Apple Watch was only accessible via standard notifications. Messages could be read and briefly replied to, but that was it. Meta has now replaced this limited solution. With the latest update in the App Store, there's a full-fledged app for the Apple Watch that goes far beyond simple push notifications. It offers access to entire chats, voice messages, reactions, and media. WhatsApp finally gets the range of features one would expect on a smartwatch.
WhatsApp for Apple Watch – here's what's new
Meta has equipped its new watchOS app with a whole range of features that significantly enhance the messaging experience. It transforms the Apple Watch into a true communication device.
Call notifications directly on your wrist
WhatsApp now shows who's calling on the Apple Watch. You no longer need to take your iPhone out of your pocket. The notification appears in real time, including the contact's name and profile picture, if available. This lets you instantly see whether it's worth answering or not.
Full message display
Messages are now displayed in their entirety. Long texts no longer need to be read on the iPhone; they can be scrolled through directly on the Apple Watch. This makes reading chats on the go significantly more convenient.
Record and send voice messages
Another important feature is voice message support. Voice messages can be recorded and sent directly via the Apple Watch's microphone. This works quickly and without having to use the iPhone. This is especially useful when you're out and about or exercising.
Emoji reactions
Responding to messages is now possible. WhatsApp has added a feature to reply with emojis with a single tap. This keeps communication personal, even when time is short.
Improved display of media and chat history
Meta has also improved the display. Images, stickers, and other media are shown more clearly than before. Additionally, more of the chat history is visible, allowing entire sections of conversation to be read at once. This improves the overview and the feeling of actually being in a chat – not just seeing individual messages.
Data privacy remains in effect.
As with the iPhone and desktop versions, all chats and calls on the Apple Watch are end-to-end encrypted. Meta emphasizes that user privacy is fully protected. Messages and calls remain private, even on the wrist.
Conditions for use
To use the new WhatsApp app, watchOS 10 or later is required. An Apple Watch Series 4 or later is also required. Older models cannot install the app. Once WhatsApp is updated on your iPhone, the new app will also be available on your watch.
Looking to the Future
Meta has announced that further updates are planned. Future versions are expected to bring even more features and improve the user experience on the Apple Watch. Details are not yet available, but it's clear that Meta aims to expand WhatsApp's functionality on watchOS in the long term.
WhatsApp on the Apple Watch: now with full functionality
With the new WhatsApp app for Apple Watch, Meta closes a long-standing gap. The app now offers much more than simple notifications: it displays complete messages, allows voice messages, reactions, and even access to media. Data privacy remains guaranteed, as all content is encrypted. Those who use WhatsApp regularly now also benefit from real added value on the Apple Watch.
A current Apple Watch running watchOS 10 or later is required. This transforms the Apple Watch into a practical everyday companion, enabling not only fitness tracking and notifications, but also genuine communication. With this move, WhatsApp demonstrates its continued evolution – and hasn't forgotten the Apple community. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Photo by Unsplash / BoliviaInteligente)
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