Apple Watch users get full WhatsApp access in new app rollout
Users can open individual conversations, view messages, listen to voice notes, and even send replies using either voice dictation, emoji reactions, or pre-set quick responses.
WhatsApp has officially launched a dedicated app for Apple Watch, enabling users to read and reply to messages and react to chats directly from their wrist, eliminating sole reliance on iPhone notifications.
The new app, currently rolling out to beta users on iOS, marks the first time WhatsApp has delivered a fully interactive experience on Apple’s smartwatch.
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Previously, Apple Watch users could only view incoming notifications and respond with quick replies. The dedicated app changes that, transforming WhatsApp into a true wrist-based communication tool.
Once installed, the app presents a streamlined version of the WhatsApp chat list, tailored for the smaller screen.
Users can open individual conversations, read messages, listen to voice notes, and send replies using voice dictation, emoji reactions, or preset quick responses.
According to early testers, media such as photos and short videos can also be viewed directly on the Apple Watch display, an unprecedented feature for the platform.
While the app still requires an active connection to a paired iPhone, insiders say Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, is exploring standalone functionality for cellular Apple Watch models in future updates.
For millions of WhatsApp users, especially in regions where the app is a daily communication lifeline, the update reduces phone dependence.
Quick message checks, short replies, and emoji reactions can now be handled effortlessly from the wrist, whether during workouts, commutes, or meetings.
Following its expansion to tablets, web browsers, and now wearables, WhatsApp is steadily evolving into a truly cross-platform messaging service.
Currently, the Apple Watch app is available to beta testers via TestFlight and is expected to roll out to all iOS users in the coming weeks through a standard App Store update.
To access the app, users will need the latest versions of WhatsApp for iOS and watchOS 10 or later.
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