WhatsApp is gearing up to launch a new native app for Apple CarPlay, stepping beyond just phones and smartwatches. Developers and a few lucky beta testers have already spotted the feature in the latest iOS beta.
The idea here is pretty simple: WhatsApp wants to make its services easier to access, especially while people are on the road.
CarPlay app shows recent chats list
For starters, you will be able to see your list of recent chats right on your car’s screen—think messages from the past few weeks, maybe 20 to 25 days’ worth. You can also spot which chats you have pinned or muted, along with timestamps for the last messages.
Identifying your contacts should be easy too, since their names and profile pictures show up.
Limited interaction for safety reasons
Now, for safety’s sake, WhatsApp limits what you can actually do while driving. You can look at your chat list, but you won’t be able to open full chat windows and start reading through messages. This will keep you focus on the road. If you want to reply or hear your messages, you’ll need to use voice controls instead of tapping around.
Voice commands and call features supported
Speaking of voice control, the CarPlay app supports dictation, so you can send messages just by talking. You can start WhatsApp voice calls from your center console, too. There’s even a section just for recent calls, so everything stays organized.
Builds on existing CarPlay integration
Technically, CarPlay already works with WhatsApp to a degree—you get notifications, Siri can read your messages, and you can reply by voice. But calls still show up in Apple’s main Phone app. This new native app should smooth out the experience and keep everything in one place.
Rollout timeline still unclear
There’s no official release date yet. The feature’s in beta testing through TestFlight, and the rollout remains a mystery. WhatsApp and Apple haven’t made any announcements, but iOS users can expect it in a future update.