WhatsApp launches standalone app for Apple Watch

WhatsApp has rolled out a new standalone app for Apple Watch in the latest update, meant to reduce reliance on the iPhone to use the messaging platform. The standalone app will be available on Apple Watch Series 4 or later, running watchOS 10 or later, the tech giant said.

The company said in a blog post that the move is part of delivering "useful functionality" for Apple Watch users.

The features of the newly launched standalone app include users being able to access WhatsApp messages on Apple Watch, including voice notes.


Additionally, call notifications pop-up allows users to keep a check without looking at the iPhone.

Other updates include the ability to send emoji reactions to messages, and view images and stickers received by the sender.

The chat history will appear when reading messages. The Meta-owned messaging platform added that calls and texts remain end-to-end encrypted.

The company said the upgrade is “just the start” of a broader effort to improve the Apple Watch experience.