WhatsApp Gets Wearable: New Version Launched For WearOS Smartwatches

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NP English
Thu, 27 Jul 2023 11:23:24 IST
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WhatsApp, the world's most popular instant messaging app, just got even more accessible with wearables. Meta has introduced a new version of WhatsApp specifically for WearOS , making it convenient for Android smartwatch users to download and set up WhatsApp directly on their watches.


One major advantage of this update is that users can now use WhatsApp on their smartwatches even when not connected to their phones. The app is available for download from the Play Store and is compatible with WearOS 3, Google's latest operating system for wearables. However, as of now, Apple WatchOS does not support standalone WhatsApp.

With WhatsApp now on WearOS, users can enjoy several benefits:


  • Voice Message Recording : Users can record voice messages using WhatsApp on their WearOS smartwatches and listen to them before sending.
  • No Need for Phone Connection: If the smartwatch has cellular connectivity, WhatsApp can function without the phone being connected to the Internet. This allows sending and receiving messages even when the phone is turned off.
  • Quick Reply: WhatsApp provides pre-reply answers like 'OK', 'Fine', 'Thanks', etc., making it easier to send quick responses on the smartwatch.
  • Text Messages: Users can send and receive text messages using WhatsApp on WearOS smartwatches.
  • Chat Mute: The feature of muting chats is available to manage notifications. Users can mute specific chats or group chats from profile details.
  • Emoji Reaction : WhatsApp's recently launched Emoji Reaction feature is also accessible on the WearOS version. Though the selection of emojis remains the same, customization is currently unavailable on the watch. Changes made to the default emoji reaction on the phone will reflect on the watch as well.
The demand for a WearOS version of WhatsApp had been high for a long time, and Meta announced its development at the Google I/O conference in May. Beta testers provided valuable feedback during the testing phase, leading to the final version's launch.

While Android users can now enjoy the dedicated WhatsApp app on their smartwatches, Apple Watch users will have to wait a little longer. Although they can see incoming WhatsApp message notifications on their iPhones , features like WhatsApp calling and starting new conversations are yet to be introduced. Meta may launch a dedicated WhatsApp app for Apple's WatchOS in the future.


WhatsApp currently boasts over two billion users worldwide and continues to add new features, including username, video call limits, channels, emoji updates , and keyboard redesigns. With the new WearOS version, WhatsApp's user experience is enhanced for those with Android smartwatches, promising even more convenience and connectivity on the go.