WhatsApp is working around the clock on expanding its presence to pretty much everywhere, and after a Garmin smartwatch app, it’s now time to focus on what happens behind the wheel. CarPlay is the first stop, and a beta version that received the go-ahead not long ago brings good news to Apple users.
WhatsApp is working on an official app for CarPlay, essentially allowing the messaging service to evolve from its basic functionality powered by Siri integration to a separate application.
The existing WhatsApp experience allows users to have their messages read by Siri. They can also reply in a conversation with voice commands, but other than that, the only way to access more features is to unlock the iPhone.
That’s why WhatsApp wants the CarPlay app to offer access to chats, calls, and favorite contacts in a dedicated interface. What’s very important to know from the beginning is that the CarPlay app won’t allow WhatsApp users to type on their infotainment screens. While typing is supported in various apps, such as Google Maps – and could theoretically be unlocked in messaging apps IF the vehicle is parked – WhatsApp wants the entire experience to be focused on driver safety.
That’s why the UI will offer access to the last conversations, with dedicated options to send a new message or continue a conversation. In both cases, voice commands will be used, so even if you tap the “new message” button in WhatsApp, you’ll still have to speak the message.
The calls screen provides info on the latest calls, allowing you to initiate a new call by tapping the contact name. Furthermore, there’s a dedicated “Ask Siri to Make a Call” feature that works just like it does in the current CarPlay experience, where users can request the digital assistant to call someone.
The Favorites screen allows users to access the contacts they flagged as favorites on their iPhones, so making phone calls and sending a message is much more straightforward and convenient. Other than that, the iPhone continues to be the only way to access the entire WhatsApp feature lineup, so if you’re thinking about things like typing, sending files, or video calls, you really shouldn’t hold your breath for such features.
All these features are currently live in the beta stage, but this is typically a good sign that a release is just around the corner. Unless something goes wrong and a major bug is found, that is, but otherwise, I expect the new WhatsApp experience to be ready in the coming weeks.
With WWDC also around the corner, announcing the new WhatsApp app for CarPlay at the developer event makes perfect sense, so fingers crossed that everything goes as planned in the beta testing stage.…Read more by Bogdan Popa