WhatsApp users on iPhone can finally celebrate — the platform has officially rolled out a dedicated WhatsApp beta app for Apple Watch, making wrist-based messaging faster and more convenient than ever.
This new update allows Apple Watch owners to send and receive messages directly from their wrist, without needing their iPhone nearby all the time.
What’s New in WhatsApp for Apple Watch (Beta)
Users enrolled in TestFlight beta are now able to:
- View and reply to WhatsApp messages from Apple Watch
- Receive voice messages, emojis, and attachments
- Mark chats as read on the Watch interface
- Use WhatsApp notifications with richer interaction
- Enjoy faster performance with a native watchOS app
This brings a more complete WhatsApp experience to the Apple Watch compared to the limited notification-only compatibility earlier.
Requires Updated Software
To use the new beta version, users must have:
- WhatsApp Beta v24.18 or later
- iPhone running iOS 15 or newer
- watchOS 9 or later (compatible with most latest Apple Watch models)
The app uses the Watch’s onboard capabilities for better reliability — especially when your iPhone is not in your pocket.
Standalone Use Coming Soon?
Testers have noted that WhatsApp may enable full standalone mode in future updates — meaning messaging even when the iPhone is powered off or out of range (via LTE models or Wi-Fi).
Meta has not confirmed a release date, but this beta rollout suggests a stable public launch is coming very soon.
Official Statement (Meta)
Meta confirmed that the beta app aims to make messaging on wearables “more accessible, faster, and privacy-focused”, supporting encryption on the Watch as well.
Why This Update Matters
Apple Watch users have long relied on limited notifications for WhatsApp. With this new app:
✔ Better convenience
✔ Faster communication
✔ Improved accessibility
✔ More smart-watch independence
This upgrade could become a game-changer for WhatsApp users who rely on their Apple Watch for everyday communication.
WhatsApp’s watchOS beta is another step toward a more connected wearable ecosystem. As the test phase continues, users can expect more features and a polished experience in the upcoming public release.