After years of anticipation, Apple Watch users can finally rejoice—an official WhatsApp app has landed! But here's where it gets interesting: while this is a game-changer for iPhone enthusiasts, Android users might be thinking, 'Wait, isn’t this old news?' Let’s dive in.
The new app is a major leap forward, allowing users to browse chats, read recent messages, and compose replies directly from their wrist. And yes, you can finally send voice messages—a feature Wear OS users have enjoyed since 2023. But is Apple playing catch-up?
Previously, Apple Watch users were limited to replying only to incoming notifications, leaving them behind in the smartwatch race. Now, with this integration, Apple’s smartwatch is on par with its competitors. And this is the part most people miss: while it’s a companion app (meaning it mirrors your iPhone and requires it to be nearby), it still maintains end-to-end encryption for messages and calls.
Here’s how it works: the native watch app lets you navigate your chat list, read threads, and reply using the QWERTY keyboard (on compatible models), emojis, dictation, or voice messages. It’s a seamless experience—but only if you have an Apple Watch Series 4 or newer running watchOS 10 or later.
Controversial take: Is Apple’s late arrival to the WhatsApp party a sign of innovation lagging, or simply a strategic move to perfect the user experience? After all, Google’s Wear OS has had a fully-featured WhatsApp app since mid-2023. What do you think?
For those eager to explore more, the Wareable team has curated a list of must-have Apple Watch apps to complement your new WhatsApp experience. And if you’re curious about the author, Daryll Gayatin, she’s not just a freelance news writer for Wareable—she’s also a published author, ukulele enthusiast, and gaming aficionado. Talk about multitasking!
So, is this update a triumph or a long-overdue necessity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
