WhatsApp has begun rolling out a dedicated app for the Apple Watch for users who want to stay connected on the go. As per WABetaInfo, the app, currently available through the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS, allows Apple Watch owners to chat, reply, and interact with messages directly from their wrist.
Unlike its Wear OS counterpart, the initial version of WhatsApp on Apple Watch functions as a companion app and still requires the iPhone to be connected. Users looking to leave their phone at home and use WhatsApp solely on their watch will find that the app does not yet support full independence. The iPhone connection is necessary for messaging, so the experience is not yet standalone, but this release is still a big step forward for WhatsApp on Apple Watch.
Previously, Apple Watch users could access WhatsApp only through basic notification mirroring, which offered limited interaction. The new companion app changes this by providing more direct access, including viewing conversations, sending quick replies, reacting with emojis, and checking media—all without waiting for a phone notification. These additions bring the Apple Watch closer to the level of support offered by other messaging apps on watchOS.