WhatsApp tests its Apple Watch app: features, limitations, and availability

WhatsApp has begun testing a specific application for Apple Watch through the TestFlight program on iOS. The new feature allows Check and reply to messages from your wrist with a native app that leaves behind the limited support based only on notifications.

The existence of this version has been detected by BetaInfo and other means, without an official announcement from Meta, and for now there is no confirmed schedule for its general rollout. In Europe and Spain, access depends on Limited access on TestFlight, something that usually fills up quickly.

What can you do on WhatsApp with the Apple Watch?

The application incorporates the key functions of messaging adapted to watchOS: browse through the conversation listOpen recent conversations and stay up to date without taking your phone out of your pocket.

• Reading messages and quickly viewing received content.
• Quick replies, voice dictation, and watch keyboard when available.
• Emoji reactions via long press.
• Record and send voice notes directly from the watch.
• Supports attached multimedia display within the watch's own app.

In addition, the watchOS client respects the organization of your conversations, showing pinned and temporary chats (disappearing messages) Just like on the iPhone. In some beta builds, it's also possible to start new conversations from the watch.

Automatic pairing and connection status

The watch app automatically links to your iPhone's WhatsApp account. without scanning QR codesIt is enough that the Apple Watch is paired with the iPhone and use the same WhatsApp account.

On the screen you will see an indicator in the upper left corner that shows the status: "Synchronizing", "Connected" or connection lost with your iPhone. Once the connection is established, you can scroll through your chats and reply on the fly from your wrist.

It is not a standalone app

This initial release functions as a companion app: WhatsApp installed and connectedIf you go out without your phone or lose connection, the functions become very limited.

This situation contrasts with the experience on some Wear OS watches, where WhatsApp is already available. It offers more independent use through linked devicesOn watchOS, for now, total dependence iPhone.

Experience and safety

By operating as an extension of the iPhone, the end-to-end encryption Regarding WhatsApp: messages are still managed by the main device and the watch acts as a secure client for consultation and response.

Compared to third-party solutions, this official app avoids unnecessary risks and Improves compatibility with notificationswhich now allow you to read, respond and react without waiting for a new notification.

Availability in Spain and requirements

The app is currently being tested on TestFlight for the WhatsApp beta on iOS (some testers are reporting build 25.32.10.71). Access is limited, so There may not be any places available at certain times.

Main requirements: iPhone with the beta version of WhatsApp and a Apple Watch compatible with the latest version of watchOSMeta has not announced a release date for the App Store.

On watchOS, Apple's Messages remains the most comprehensive alternative. Telegram discontinued its watch app some time ago, and Messenger and Signal do not offer a native client. on the Apple Watch, which leaves WhatsApp in a relevant position if this beta progresses.

What remains to be confirmed

There are no official details about future steps, such as turning it into a standalone app or adding advanced features (for example, calls). In the short term, it is expected that Meta refine stability and performance before expanding the deployment.

With the beta version underway and a focus on essential features, WhatsApp for Apple Watch is shaping up to be a clear improvement over the old notification mirror. bounds of this first stage.