Until now, Apple Watch owners could only view incoming WhatsApp notifications — and maybe fire off a short, templated reply using Siri or preset responses. There was no dedicated app, no chat access, and definitely no way to send voice notes or view media.
That changes with the new WhatsApp app for Apple Watch, which now lets users read and reply to full messages directly from their wrist. Even longer messages that were previously truncated in notifications can now be viewed in full.
Beyond that, the update brings several long-requested features:
- Call notifications: See who’s calling without picking up your iPhone.
- Voice messages: Record and send voice notes directly from the Watch.
- Emoji reactions: Respond to messages instantly with emoji reactions.
- Media previews: View clear images and stickers right on your wrist.
- Expanded chat history: Scroll through more of your recent conversations.
The app also maintains WhatsApp’s hallmark end-to-end encryption, ensuring that even on your wrist, your messages and calls stay private.
It’s a meaningful step for Apple Watch users who’ve long wanted WhatsApp to go beyond passive notifications and a sign that Meta’s finally giving wearable users the attention they’ve been asking for.
