WhatsApp has made a significant move by making its app compatible with Wear OS on Android, according to a report by WABetaInfo.
The latest update, WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.10.10, available on the Google Play Store, allows users to stay connected and access their chats and messages directly from their smartwatch.
The app includes features such as chat messaging and voice messages, but some features, like seeing videos and placing calls, may not be supported yet, although they may be available in future updates.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JANUARY 06: A model displays the LG G Watch R at the LG booth during the 2015 International CES at the Las Vegas Convention Center on January 6, 2015, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Under Development
However, it must be noted that this new feature is still under development, so it may not yet be accessible to beta testers. But those who have installed the update have discovered that the app is compatible with Wear OS., as per WABetaInfo.
Wear OS is an operating system designed for smartwatches and other wearables. It is based on the Android operating system and was developed by Google. It is designed to work with a range of devices from different manufacturers, including smartwatches from Fossil, LG, Samsung, and others.
Wear OS devices are typically paired with a smartphone using Bluetooth, which allows users to access a range of features and functionalities on their smartwatches. Many Wear OS watches also offer built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows them to work independently of a smartphone in some cases.
To download the app, users need to be beta testers and update the app to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.10.10 update from the Google Play Store.
Users will receive an 8-digit code on their smartwatch when they link the WhatsApp smartwatch app to their account. They will then be prompted to enter this code on their device.
Upon entering the code, users can synchronize their chats across all their devices, enabling them to access WhatsApp on their smartwatches. The messaging functionality of the smartwatch app will maintain end-to-end encryption, relying on multi-device capabilities.
Expanding Wear OS' Reach
The introduction of WhatsApp compatibility with Wear OS may just be a significant development that will enable the app to expand its reach besides smartphones and tablets.
It is important to mention that the current version of the app is the initial release, and certain features may not be fully supported at this time. Some functions like video viewing and call placement may not be accessible to users, but these features could potentially be included in forthcoming updates.
To use WhatsApp on a smartwatch, users can download the latest WhatsApp beta update for Android from the Google Play Store as a beta tester.
According to WABetaInfo, the smartwatch app is currently not available for the WhatsApp Business app, even with the latest update installed.
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