Apple Watch users finally have a reason to celebrate. Meta has officially rolled out a dedicated WhatsApp app for watchOS, letting users read full messages, send voice notes, and manage chats right from their wrist — no iPhone required.
Five months after debuting its first iPad app, Meta has now expanded WhatsApp’s reach to the Apple Watch. While users could previously receive and respond to WhatsApp notifications through the watch’s built-in system, the official app introduces a far more immersive experience.
The new WhatsApp for Apple Watch allows users to read entire conversations — including lengthy messages — and react using emojis for quick responses. You can now record and send voice messages, check who’s calling you, and even view a more complete chat history without reaching for your iPhone.
Meta says this marks a “big upgrade for your wrist,” adding that the app is designed to help users stay on top of their chats “without needing to pull out your iPhone.”
Compatibility
The WhatsApp app is available for download starting today — but not every Apple Watch model is eligible. According to Meta, only the Apple Watch Series 4 or later running watchOS 10 or newer supports the app.
The Apple Watch Series 4, first released in September 2018, remains the oldest model compatible with the update. Users can download the app directly from their Apple Watch by pressing the digital crown and tapping on the App Store, or through their iPhone’s Watch app under the “My Watch” tab.
What you can do with WhatsApp on Apple watch
With this launch, Meta brings many popular WhatsApp features to your wrist, including:
-
Reading full WhatsApp messages without unlocking your iPhone
-
Recording and sending voice messages
-
Reacting to messages using emojis
-
Viewing images and extended chat history
-
Receiving call notifications directly on your watch
For Apple Watch users with cellular connectivity, this update could make it easier to stay connected — even during a workout or while leaving the phone behind.
The move comes nearly a decade after Apple introduced its first smartwatch in 2015. Despite WhatsApp’s popularity, Meta had long delayed developing a native watchOS app — similar to its slow rollout of Instagram for iPad earlier this year.
The company says it plans to roll out “even more useful functionality” in future updates, hinting at possible additions like voice calling and richer media integration.
