WhatsApp adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto upgrades, iPad sign-ups, and more

Android Auto upgrades, iPad sign-ups, and more">

WhatsApp is rolling out a suite of new features, including a revamped Apple CarPlay and Android Auto experience as part of the Meta-owned company’s broader push to make its app a more complete cross-device communication platform rather than one just used for mobile messaging.

The platform is also launching the ability for users to sign up for WhatsApp directly from their iPad, share what they’re listening to, and open PDFs directly in the app.

WhatsApp has also improved its integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — apps that run on a smartphone and wirelessly communicate with a vehicle’s infotainment system. WhatsApp was accessible in CarPlay before, but users were limited to composing messages and placing calls. Now users can also hear and reply to messages, view their call history, and access their favorite contacts.

WhatsApp says that since launching WhatsApp for iPad last year, people have requested the option to create an account directly on their iPad without having to link to their phone. Now, users can register for an account directly through the iPad app and set up their account, the company says.

It’s worth noting that you still need a phone number and the ability to receive the one-time passcode to register your account. After that, the app will work as a standalone account on your iPad and won’t be linked to a primary phone as a companion device, a WhatsApp spokesperson told TechCrunch.

Additionally, users can now share a song straight from Apple Music or Spotify to their WhatsApp Status. WhatsApp says the idea behind the feature is to allow users to express themselves and make their status more unique.

WhatsApp is now also making it possible to open PDFs directly within the app without having to download them. Once users open a PDF, they will be able to make lightweight edits, such as highlighting and annotating, right within the chat. This new capability is available on the web and desktop, WhatsApp says.

The latest features announced on Wednesday add to the growing list of updates WhatsApp has rolled out in recent months.

A few weeks ago, the company launched usernames to allow people to share their profiles without disclosing their phone number. In late May, Meta launched a subscription plan for the messaging app that unlocks extra features, like profile customization, super reactions, story insights, and more. The WhatsApp Plus plan launched alongside similar “Plus” offerings for Instagram and Facebook.