WhatsApp Launches Standalone App for Google Wear OS Smartwatches

WhatsApp has finally launched its standalone app for smartwatches running Google’s Wear OS, after much anticipation and months-long beta testing.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the launch of the WhatsApp app for Wear OS. Users can now start new conversations, reply to messages, and take VoIP calls without needing their connected phone.

The app is now rolling out worldwide and is compatible with smartwatches running Wear OS 3. It allows users to send and receive text and voice messages, emojis, and quick replies directly from their wrist.

In May, at its developer-focused I/O conference, Google revealed the release of WhatsApp’s Wear OS app. Initially available as a beta version, it was highly anticipated to be publicly accessible soon after.

During the I/O keynote, Google also showcased improved Wear OS apps from third-party companies like Spotify and Peloton. Updates were also announced for Google’s own apps such as Google Home, Gmail, and Calendar, providing an enhanced experience for Wear OS-based smartwatches.

Unlike Wear OS, Apple’s watchOS currently does not have a standalone WhatsApp app. This limits the functionality on Apple Watch, lacking native options to send messages or make calls via WhatsApp. However, users can still view and respond to incoming messages through the watch’s screen if appropriate notification settings are enabled on their iPhone. Despite this limitation, Apple Watch continues to dominate the overall smartwatch market.

To compete with Apple Watch’s dominance, Google is actively improving Wear OS and expanding its manufacturer partnerships. The company aims to bring new apps and experiences to the platform. According to the I/O keynote, Wear OS is the fastest-growing smartwatch platform globally, with five-fold growth since the release of Wear OS 3 in 2021.