Meta has rolled out a refreshed WhatsApp client for Apple CarPlay, replacing the Siri‑only version that arrived years ago. The new build drops a fully native UI onto the car’s infotainment screen, letting drivers browse contacts, recent chats and call logs without voice prompts, and supports dark mode for night driving.

The interface adds a contact‑info pane where profile pictures and status appear, plus a Favorites strip for the people users message most. Shortcut buttons enable dictation‑based texting or one‑tap calling, giving an alternative to Siri when speaking isn’t convenient, or swipe to open a conversation directly from the list. Beta testing began last week, and the rollout reaches all iPhone users now.

By giving drivers visual access to messaging and calling tools, the update narrows the gap between mobile and in‑car communication. Competing platforms like Android Auto already offered richer messaging apps, so Meta’s move levels the playing field for iOS drivers. The change arrives alongside OpenAI’s ChatGPT Voice mode for CarPlay, expanding voice‑first options on the road and respects user privacy settings.