WhatsApp has launched a new in-car experience for iPhone users, bringing a full CarPlay app that replaces its earlier, limited setup.
The update is now rolling out globally through the latest iOS version of the app. Once installed, the new interface appears automatically when an iPhone connects to a CarPlay-enabled vehicle.
Before now, WhatsApp worked on CarPlay through Siri. You could send or read messages using voice commands, but that was about it. There was no proper interface on the car screen. That has changed.
With this release, WhatsApp now runs as a native CarPlay app. It opens up a proper dashboard built for use while driving. The layout is simple, but it does more than before.
An interesting aspect of the update is a tabbed interface. It separates chats, calls, and favourite contacts into different sections. This makes it easier to move around without getting distracted.
The chats tab shows recent conversations, including those with unread messages. It does not display full message history, which helps keep the screen clean and limits how much a driver has to look at.
Next is the calls tab. Here, users can see incoming, outgoing, and missed calls listed in order, along with timestamps and contact images. You can tap any entry to return a call quickly.
There is also a favourites tab. It pulls in frequently contacted people from WhatsApp on the iPhone, giving quicker access without scrolling through long lists.
In addition, there are quick controls for sending messages through dictation or placing calls. These sit within easy reach on the interface, reducing the need for manual input while driving.
WhatsApp says calls and messages are still end-to-end encrypted, as with its main app. That part has not changed.
The update had been in testing shortly before release. It is now being launched globally, and users only need to update the app and connect their device to see it.
This is very different from the earlier experience. Instead of relying only on voice, drivers now get a full visual interface built for CarPlay. It is designed to keep things simple while still giving access to key features.
The rollout also comes alongside other recent additions to WhatsApp, including new reply suggestions and photo tools, as the company expands how the app is used across devices.
