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When it comes to the best smartwatches, there are two main options. Either, you opt for an Apple Watch, or you plump for one of the many Wear OS-based smartwatches, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 or the Google Pixel Watch.
For users of Wear OS devices, there's a great upgrade coming. WhatsApp has famously been missing from the operating system, but that could all be about to change, as details of beta testing for the app have emerged.
As reported by 9to5Google, the app works pretty much exactly as you'd expect it to. Conversations can be scrolled through, with replies possible with either an on-screen keyboard or a voice note.
There are also several prompts to open on your phone, perhaps owing to the easier keyboard formatting on a larger device. There are a trio of complications on offer, too.
The standard complication offers a circular dial, which simply increases to show the number of unread messages a user has. The number is also displayed in the centre of the complication. Elsewhere, a WhatsApp Contacts tile allows users to jump straight to an individual conversation, while WhatsApp Voice Message allows you to instantly start an audio recording to send to a contact.
Personally, I think this is a great upgrade, and comes not a moment too soon. WhatsApp is a massively popular messaging client, and not having it available is a big mark against Wear OS devices.
Having it included will be a big improvement, and should make Android smartwatches a more compelling option against devices like the Apple Watch Series 8. There are no details of a public launch date right now, but the beta testing suggests it shouldn't be too far away.
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.
Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.
He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.
Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.