WhatsApp on WearOS is making its official debut, transitioning out of its beta stage as the messaging platform launches its first-ever smartwatch app. Initially announced at Google I/O 2023, this version of WhatsApp offers a range of functionalities similar to the smartphone app. Users can conveniently send texts, voice messages, emojis, and quick replies through their wearable device without needing to be connected to their phone. The app is designed to be a standalone application, providing a seamless user experience on WearOS.
One of the notable aspects of the smartwatch app is the preservation of WhatsApp’s signature end-to-end encryption, ensuring the same level of privacy and security as on other platforms. However, it’s important to note that WhatsApp on WearOS may not be as feature-rich as its counterparts on other devices. For instance, some large-scale features like Communities are not accessible through the smartwatch app. Additionally, while users can receive VoIP calls, making outgoing VoIP calls is currently not supported.
To use WhatsApp on a smartwatch, users can install the app from the Google Play Store. However, there is a limitation to consider – the wearable device must be running on WearOS 3. This means that older smartwatches might not be compatible with the app, leaving users with recent devices like the Pixel Watch or the Galaxy Watch 5 series as eligible options.
As for Apple Watch users, there is no confirmation from Meta (formerly Facebook) regarding the development of a WhatsApp app for their wearable. As of now, iOS users will have to stick to the traditional method of accessing WhatsApp through their iPhones to respond to messages.
