WhatsApp for CarPlay Now Available Globally; Functions Restricted to Reduce Distractions

Just a few days after offering a preview version of the long-awaited official CarPlay app for WhatsApp beta testers, parent company Meta has now released it to the general public. iPhone owners who want to use WhatsApp natively through their car’s infotainment system can head to the App Store to download the latest update, which is now live and rolling out around the world. Once installed, a new WhatsApp icon will show up in the app grid on a connected CarPlay screen.

A native app means that people won’t have to fumble with their phone while driving, or rely on Siri voice commands to keep track of messages and calls. However, Apple does impose tight restrictions on what a CarPlay app can do, in order to reduce the chances of a driver being distracted. The CarPlay experience is still voice-centric, minimising use of the car’s screen.

The timing of this update, just days after the latest beta preview, means features and capabilities related to the CarPlay app are unlikely to have changed significantly. The move points to developers being satisfied with the feedback received from beta testers, and no major bugs or functionality gaps being reported, allowing for a quick public release.

While users will be able to send messages using voice dictation, and have incoming ones read to them, they cannot read through message threads on the CarPlay screen. This is a deliberate move, to ensure that drivers keep their eyes on the road. The chats list will only allow users to check for unread messages, and the time of the most recent interaction.

Similarly, users can make and receive calls, but they will be audio-only. They can see their history of incoming, outgoing and missed calls, and can tap a contact’s name to begin a conversation. Finally, there’s also a tab for favourite contacts, for quick calls or messages.

Much like ChatGPT and Google Meet for CarPlay, which also rolled out within the last few days, the app will not support interactive on-screen elements. In addition to a lack of video calls, there will likely not be support for polls in chats, or even WhatsApp statuses. Drivers who must pick up their phones are advised to do so only when the car is stationary.