Samsung's recent Unpacked event had the world buzzing with excitement over the latest Galaxy Z devices, but WhatsApp managed to steal some of the spotlight with its latest updates. The messaging app has rolled out several new features that users on both Android and iOS can take advantage of right now.
One of the most significant improvements is the overhaul of WhatsApp's experience in CarPlay and Android Auto. The goal of these platforms is to make smartphone apps safe to use while on the road, allowing users to hear messages and respond to them with their voice while keeping their attention on the road. Unfortunately, WhatsApp's previous experience in the car was limited, only allowing users to send new messages and place WhatsApp calls.
The latest update has changed that, finally letting users listen to and respond to their messages, as well as access their call history and favorite contacts. This should make it easier to start quick calls and messages to the friends and family you talk with most often.
WhatsApp has also improved its PDF experience on the web and desktop. Users can now open PDFs directly in WhatsApp without downloading them first, and can even edit them using Adobe Acrobat. This puts WhatsApp in the running against other lightweight and free PDF apps on the market.
Another new feature allows users to share Apple Music and Spotify tracks directly to WhatsApp. If you're listening to a song you really like, you can share it across many different social media apps, including WhatsApp. This should make it easier to share music with friends and family.
Finally, WhatsApp has made it easier for users to create an account directly from the iPad app, without needing to tie the account to a phone number. This should be welcome news for users who rely on their iPad as their main device.
