What are the new features in WhatsApp for smartwatches?
The application will be available for download directly from Google Play Store
Meta confirmed the arrival of WhatsApp to devices that use Wear OS, the Android operating system for smartwatches. So now users will have the native application, which gives them more features and a better experience compared to the version that existed until now.
Prior to this announcement, from a smartwatch it was possible to access the messaging platform through an adapted version, which allowed to see the chats but not other more detailed features, which are now available as replies to messages.
What WhatsApp will look like on smartwatches
A few months ago, during a Google event, it was announced that the application would arrive natively, but until now the details of this launch were revealed.
One of the most anticipated features of this new version is the ability to reply to messages directly from the smartwatch. Users will have the platform’s current methods at their disposal, such as text via a small keyboard that displays on the watch screen, emojis, default replies and voice memos that are recorded directly on the wearable device. In addition, they will also be able to react to messages using WhatsApp’s five basic reactions.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, through his channel on Instagram, assured that people will find the same experience of the messaging application they have on their cell phones and computers, but this time “from the wrist”.
How to have WhatsApp on your smart watch
The application is already available for free download on devices with Wear OS 3.0 and later versions, but more devices are expected to have it, such as those with Wear OS 2.0.
In the announcement, Zuckerberg gave no indication of an upcoming release for Apple devices, which use a different operating system, while Android’s has been adapted by brands such as Samsung and Mobvoi.
To install WhatsApp on the watch there are two options. One is to do it directly from the device, going to Google Play Store and search for the application. The other possibility is from the cell phone, opening Play Store, looking for the app and in the list of linked devices, select the smartwatch where you want to have it.
Once installed and opened, the platform will ask for a random code number to link with the cell phone and continue with the history you have so far. In addition, in this way it guarantees the use of end-to-end encryption to take care of the conversations and that only the participants in them can see that information.
How to edit WhatsApp messages
WhatsApp added a tool that allows you to edit sent messages, preventing them from having to be deleted or corrected with a new text. The feature is now available to all users worldwide on iOS and Android.
To edit the messages you have to follow this step by step, taking into account that there is a limit of 15 minutes to modify the text:
- Open WhatsApp.
- In a sent message, hold precious the content for a few seconds.
- On iPhone a pop-up menu will be displayed, while on Android you have to go to the top right corner and press the three dots.
- In both cases, a series of options will appear and you must click on the Edit button.
- A new text box will open with the sent content. There you can make the desired changes and press the button to send.
As a dedicated editor for Global Web Wire, I bring a wealth of expertise to my role in covering technology, gadgets and social media trends. Since September 2022, I have been committed to producing well-researched and thought-provoking articles and reports in these areas, leveraging my in-depth knowledge and passion for these subjects to deliver insightful and valuable content to our readers. Whether exploring the latest advancements in technology or delving into the social media landscape, I approach each topic with the goal of providing a nuanced and well-rounded perspective that engages and informs.