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

What the report says

TechCrunch reported that WhatsApp is introducing several new features aimed at making the Meta-owned messaging service work more fully across devices and platforms, not just on phones. The update includes expanded support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, direct account registration on iPad, music sharing to Status, and in-app PDF viewing and markup.

According to the report, WhatsApp’s upgraded CarPlay and Android Auto experience lets users hear and respond to messages, place calls, see recent call history, and reach favorite contacts from a vehicle’s screen in a hands-free setting. WhatsApp had already worked with CarPlay, but TechCrunch said its earlier functions were more limited, mainly covering message composition and calls.

The iPad change allows users to create a WhatsApp account directly through the iPad app, rather than only using the tablet as a linked companion to a phone. TechCrunch reported that users still need a phone number and access to a one-time passcode for registration, after which the iPad app can operate as a standalone account.

Other additions include sharing songs from Apple Music or Spotify to WhatsApp Status and opening PDFs inside WhatsApp without first downloading them. TechCrunch said the PDF feature supports lightweight edits such as annotations and highlighting on web and desktop. The rollout follows other recent WhatsApp updates, including usernames and a paid Plus plan, as Meta continues to broaden WhatsApp’s role beyond basic mobile messaging.