WhatsApp Lands on the Apple Watch

After years of waiting, WhatsApp is bringing Messenger to the Apple Watch. For the first time, beta users can read, reply to messages and react with emojis directly on their wrist. However, the app only works as a companion to the iPhone.

WhatsApp is conquering more wrists

WhatsApp now has a beta version of its first Apple Watch app via TestFlight published. After years of waiting, users can for the first time use the popular messenger directly on their wrist. The app supports reading messages, sending replies and reactions, and sharing voice messages. The development of an Apple Watch app was long overdue, as competitors like Telegram have been offering corresponding solutions for years. Until now, Apple Watch users had to make do with simple notifications without being able to respond directly (in depth) to messages. 

Functional scope of the first version

The Apple Watch app offers essential messaging features like chat navigation, quick replies, and emoji reactions right on the watch. Users can scroll through their chat list, view pinned conversations, and compose new messages. The WhatsApp connection between iPhone and Apple Watch is fully automatic as long as both devices are paired.

Meta is said to have optimized the user interface specifically for the small display of the Apple Watch and enables intuitive operation despite the limited screen size, according to first impressions (via WABetaInfo). WhatsApp is following the example of its Wear OS app, which has been available for Android users since 2023.

iPhone dependency as a limitation

The app does not work independently, but relies on a connection to the iPhone. Users cannot simply leave their iPhone at home and communicate exclusively via the Apple Watch. The limitation to a so-called companion solution distinguishes the app from completely independent smartwatch applications. The restriction is likely to be disappointing for many users who were hoping for a fully autonomous solution. Other messaging apps such as iMessage already work independently on the Apple Watch, as long as a cellular connection and a suitable link to the Apple account are available.

Availability and system requirements

The WhatsApp Apple Watch app is currently only available to beta testers who install the latest WhatsApp beta version via TestFlight. The minimum requirement is watchOS 10.0 or higher. A schedule for the final release on the App Store or the duration of the beta phase has not yet been announced. The beta phase is intended to help identify possible bugs and optimize usability before the app is released to all watchOS smartwatch users.