WhatsApp launches the long-awaited Apple Watch app

WhatsApp announced on Tuesday that it will launch a companion app for the Apple Watch. For the first time, WhatsApp users will be able to use their Apple Watch to get call notifications, read full messages, record and send voice messages.

“This new experience will help you stay on top of your conversations without having to take out your iPhone,” WhatsApp wrote in a blog post. “In addition to reading and replying to messages, for the first time, WhatsApp on Apple Watch will now support many sought-after features.”

Other supported features include the ability to reply to messages and the option to see more chat history on screen when reading messages. Plus, you’ll see clearer images and stickers.

The Meta-owned messaging app notes that, as always, your personal messages and calls are protected with end-to-end encryption. WhatsApp also says that it plans to offer more functionality for Apple Watches in the future.

The new WhatsApp Apple Watch app requires an Apple Watch Series 4 or later, running watchOS 10 or later.

Tuesday’s announcement doesn’t come as a complete surprise, as WhatsApp was spotted testing a new Apple Watch app last week.

WhatsApp is making it easier for users to access its services beyond mobile and desktop. In May, WhatsApp launched its long-awaited iPad app, which allows you to make video and audio calls with up to 32 people, share your screen, and use the front and rear cameras. Before the app was launched, if you wanted to use WhatsApp on your iPad, you had to use the web version in the browser.

The launch of WhatsApp for the Apple Watch comes a few months after the launch of Snapchat as well. The app allows users to preview the incoming message as well as reply using the keyboard, hand drawing, dictation, or emojis. Snapchat is focusing on using its watchOS app to enable users to quickly respond to messages, not view photos or videos.