WhatsApp is Meta app. That functionality is programmed by the app developer, Meta. Take the issue up with the developer - it is out of Samsung's control.
Also, go into the app settings on your phone, go to settings/storage and data and under "media auto-download" tap "when using mobile data" and/or "when connected to wi-fi" and uncheck everything. Nothing will automatically download to your device. The settings for the phone would carry over to the watch, since the watch does not have its own settings.
No it won't. It will just stop automatic downloads of anything. You will still get your texts and images. Otherwise, take it up with Meta. Not a Samsung issue. I never get anything downloaded to either my watch, phone or computer, because I have automatic downloads off. I don't want or need anthing automatically downloaded to any of my devices. I will decide what and when to download.
