The latest WhatsApp beta version on TestFlight offers a native CarPlay app that takes the app's usage beyond the current voice-based interface. Here are the details.

The feature is expected to be available in the coming weeks

WhatsApp users may say that the current integration is quite limited when interacting with the app via CarPlay.

Tapping the WhatsApp icon on CarPlay currently invokes Siri and offers options like asking her to write a new message or make a voice call.

However, according to WABetaInfo, Meta is working on a completely revamped WhatsApp experience that goes beyond the current Siri commands. This offers a native CarPlay interface that allows users to review recent chats, view contact information, and initiate messages or calls without being entirely dependent on voice commands.

From WABetaInfo:

When users open WhatsApp from the system launcher, they are presented with a dedicated chat list screen. This is the app's first tab that allows users to see their recent conversations, typically covering interactions from the last 20 to 25 days. It is not possible to read the chat history by opening a specific conversation. This makes sense because it is not appropriate for the driver to read all conversations while on the road. When not on the road, users can easily access their full chat history on their smartphones.

The revamped CarPlay experience is currently being offered to a limited group of users testing the app via TestFlight.

It includes:

  • A new contact information interface that allows viewing profile information for each contact;
  • A call history interface that shows incoming, outgoing, or missed calls;
  • Support for favorite contacts through a dedicated tab.

As with any beta feature, there is currently no information on when WhatsApp will make this available to the public, and it is uncertain whether features will be added or removed before launch.

For more information about CarPlay support in the WhatsApp beta version, follow this link.

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