In summary

• WhatsApp app out now for Apple Watch
• View message, monitor calls, record voice messages
• Minimum requirements: Series 4 and later

WhatsApp has released a dedicated app for the Apple Watch smartwatch, and not before time.

The immensely popular Meta-owned messaging service has waited more than 10 years to supply an app to Apple’s also-immensely-popular smartwatch, but it’s finally here.

Over on the official WhatsApp blog, the company outlines some of the features and benefits to downloading the free app.

Naturally the main positive is that you’ll be able to check and respond to your messages (even really long ones) without needing to bring your iPhone into play. It’s possible to view more of your chat history on screen when you’re reading these messages, too.

But there are some other cool features that have been added to this dedicated app.

WhatsApp

WhatsApp for Apple Watch features

You’ll also be able to see who’s placing those WhatsApp calls, again without the need to pull out your phone.

The ability to record and send voice messages from your Apple Watch will make it even more convenient for that person in your life (you know who) to take up a precious portion of your time and attention with another recorded screed. So thanks for that, WhatsApp.

At the other end of the scale, WhatsApp has made it possible to quickly react to messages with emoji.

Finally, images and stickers should look much clearer on this native Apple Watch app.

The company stresses that all your calls and messages remain end-to-end encrypted – a message that Apple itself would surely approve of.

This new WhatsApp Apple Watch app is available to download now for free from the App Store, and requires an Apple Watch Series 4 or later, which much be running watchOS 10 or later.

Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS + Cellular)

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