WhatsApp adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto upgrades, iPad subscriptions, and more

WhatsApp is rolling out a host 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 platform for cross-device communications rather than one used solely 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 PDF files directly in the app.

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

WhatsApp says that since the launch of WhatsApp for iPad last year, people have been asking for the option to create an account directly on their iPad without having to be tethered to their phone. Now, users can sign up for an account directly through the iPad app and set up their accounts, the company says.

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

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

WhatsApp now also makes it possible to open PDF files directly within the app without having to download them. Once users open the PDF, they will be able to make simple edits, such as highlighting and commenting, directly within the chat. WhatsApp says this new capability is available on web and desktop.

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

A few weeks ago, the company Usernames released To allow people to share their profiles without revealing their phone number. In late May, Meta launched a Subscription plan For a messaging app that unlocks additional features, like profile customization, super interactions, story insights, and more. The WhatsApp Plus plan was launched alongside similar ‘Plus’ offers for Instagram and Facebook.