Tech News

WhatsApp Begins Testing Apple Watch Companion App With Messaging and Emoji Reactions Support

Highlights

WhatsApp is testing a standalone app for Apple Watch via TestFlight.
It will allow beta users to read, reply, start chats, and send emoji reactions directly from their wrist.
The app auto-pairs with iPhones running iOS and watchOS 10+, eliminating the need for QR code scanning.

(Photo by Mariia Shalabaieva on Unsplash)

WhatsApp is expanding its presence to the Apple Watch with a new companion app, offering users access to messages and key features directly from their wrist. The Meta-owned messaging platform has started testing the app with select beta testers and is allowing them to try out the early version through Apple’s TestFlight programme.

The new companion app aims to bring more functionality than basic message notifications. iPhone users enrolled in the WhatsApp beta can now read and reply to messages, send new chats, and even react with emojis without needing to open the app on their phones.

WhatsApp’s Apple Watch App Brings Full Chat Access

WhatsApp reportedly releases a Compatible Apple Watch Beta App for Easier Messaging on Your Wrist. (Image credit – @WABetaInfo)

As reported by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp’s companion app for Apple Watch is being distributed via the TestFlight beta (version 25.32.10.71 for iOS). The rollout is currently limited to some users but is expected to expand to more testers in the coming weeks.

The standalone app allows users to read and reply to conversations, preview media, and send emoji reactions directly from the watch. It’s designed to work as an extension of the iPhone app and requires devices running watchOS 10 or newer.

One of the key highlights is its automated pairing process. Unlike the web or desktop version of WhatsApp, users don’t need to scan a QR code to access messages. Once the Apple Watch is paired with the iPhone, the app connects automatically. A sync indicator appears in the top-left corner of the watch display to show connection status.

Other WhatsApp Features in Development

In addition to the Apple Watch companion app, WhatsApp is also testing several new features across its beta builds. A cover photo option for user profiles was recently spotted in WhatsApp beta version 2.25.32.2 for Android, allowing users to personalise their accounts further.

Moreover, a new device storage management tool was discovered in WhatsApp beta 2.25.31.13 for Android, potentially offering users better control over media and file storage. The platform is also reportedly testing a feature that could limit the number of messages sent in new chats, aimed at improving privacy and reducing spam.

FAQs

Q1. What features does the WhatsApp Apple Watch app offer?

Answer. The app allows users to read and reply to messages, start new chats, preview media, and send emoji reactions directly from their Apple Watch.

Q2. How do users access the WhatsApp Apple Watch app?

Answer. Beta testers can access it via Apple’s TestFlight program (version 25.32.10.71 for iOS). The app auto-pairs with the iPhone, no QR code scanning is needed.

Q3. What are the system requirements for using the app?

Answer. The companion app requires an Apple Watch running watchOS 10 or newer and an iPhone with the WhatsApp beta installed. More testers will be added gradually.