WhatsApp Introduces Wrist-Based Messaging: Meta's Strategy to Broaden Its Ecosystem

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has introduced a dedicated

Watch application, allowing users to handle chats and calls straight from their smartwatch, eliminating the need for their iPhone, as reported by . This new app, which works with Apple Watch Series 4 and newer models running watchOS 10 or above, brings features like call alerts, complete message previews, voice note recording, and emoji responses, making the experience more similar to Apple’s built-in messaging platform, according to . The update also improves how media is displayed, providing sharper images, stickers, and longer chat history on the compact screen, as detailed in an .

Meta highlighted that all messages and calls on the Apple Watch app remain protected with end-to-end encryption, which is essential for safeguarding user privacy. The company called this release "just the beginning" of enhancements for the platform, with more updates planned based on user suggestions, according to an

. This development broadens WhatsApp’s integration across devices, continuing its focus on smooth multi-device connectivity.

This launch comes after Meta’s previous move to end support for its Messenger app on Apple Watch, indicating a shift toward unifying its messaging services under WhatsApp, as previously mentioned. For Apple, this collaboration strengthens the smartwatch’s position as a key tool for productivity and communication, especially as the company explores new opportunities, such as a rumored affordable MacBook to rival budget Windows and Chromebook devices, according to

.

With WhatsApp now serving over 3 billion monthly active users worldwide, the new Apple Watch app offers another convenient way for people to connect, which could boost engagement as WhatsApp expands its revenue options with ads and channel subscriptions introduced earlier this year. The ease of use on the Apple Watch may further reinforce WhatsApp’s leadership in instant messaging, particularly in regions where smartwatches are becoming more popular.

Meta’s collaboration with Apple also goes beyond devices. While Apple has been more reserved in the AI field compared to companies like NVIDIA and

, reports suggest the two are discussing bringing Google’s Gemini AI to Siri by 2026, aiming to strengthen Apple’s AI capabilities, as mentioned in . This partnership, along with WhatsApp’s app rollout, highlights a practical strategy for advancing innovation while maintaining a cohesive ecosystem.

Regulatory issues, however, remain challenging. In India, Meta recently achieved a partial win as the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) lifted a restriction on data sharing between WhatsApp and Meta, though it upheld a Rs 213.14 crore fine related to privacy policy concerns, according to

. Despite these hurdles, Meta continues to stress WhatsApp’s importance in India’s digital landscape, highlighting features like bill payments and e-commerce support.

As the WhatsApp app for Apple Watch gains momentum, industry observers are expected to closely watch its effects on user activity and Meta’s larger revenue plans. For now, this release represents a major move toward more accessible messaging and deepens the integration between two leading technology companies.