Garmin smartwatches get WhatsApp support, expanding on-wrist messaging

Garmin has introduced a dedicated WhatsApp app for select smartwatches, bringing one of the world’s most widely used messaging platforms directly to the wrist. Available via the Connect IQ Store, the app supports devices across popular lineups like fēnix, Forerunner, Venu, and vívoactive.

With the new app, users can read messages, reply using a built-in keyboard, and send quick reactions or emojis without needing to pull out their phone. Conversations are displayed with up to 10 recent messages, offering enough context for quick interactions on the go. Incoming calls on WhatsApp can also be viewed, with the option to decline directly from the watch.

The experience still relies on a paired smartphone, but it significantly reduces the need to reach for it during workouts, commutes, or daily activities. Importantly, Garmin notes that WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption remains intact, ensuring that messages and calls stay private.


This marks the first third-party messaging app to arrive on Garmin’s platform, highlighting a gradual shift toward a more app-driven ecosystem. The company credits its Connect IQ developer platform for enabling this integration, which opens the door for more services to come.

The app is now available as a free download through the Connect IQ Store on both Android and iOS.