Prior to the introduction of a standalone app, users were only able to access WhatsApp notifications in Wear OS via Bluetooth sync, however this did not offer the ability to respond to messages using just a smartwatch. — Meta
After an announcement back in May during the Google I/O conference, WhatsApp is finally rolling out a Wear OS version of the messaging app to wearable devices worldwide.
The Wear OS version of the app will allow users to start new conversations, reply to messages, and take calls without requiring a smartphone.
Users will also be able to respond with voice messages, emojis and preset quick replies.
Prior to the introduction of a standalone app, users were only able to access WhatsApp notifications in Wear OS via Bluetooth sync, however this did not offer the ability to respond to messages using just a smartwatch.
Smartwatches will need to be on Wear OS 3 and above to have support for the messaging app.
The Apple Watch currently does not have a standalone version of WhatsApp, instead only allowing users to read and respond to messages via notifications.
The previous Google I/O conference also previewed the addition of new Spotify Tiles to Wear OS, which was announced to be coming sometime this year.
