What you need to know
- WhatsApp Desktop is now a native app on Windows.
- Previously, WhatsApp on Windows was a web-based desktop application.
- With the switch to a native experience, WhatsApp Desktop should deliver better performance, a cleaner interface, and be able to send and receive messages even when a user's phone is offline.
WhatsApp outlines the changes to its desktop application on an FAQ page.
WhatsApp Desktop experience changelog
WhatsApp Desktop users have been using our web-based desktop app (WhatsApp Desktop) or our browser-based app (WhatsApp Web). As we're always trying to improve the WhatsApp experience for our users, we're developing apps native to Windows and Mac operating systems.
Advantages of native apps:
- Increased reliability and speed
- Designed and optimized for your desktop operating system
- Continue to receive notifications and messages even when your phone is offline
In addition to working without a phone needing to be online, WhatsApp Desktop has a cleaner look. It's also faster and more reliable, according to WhatsApp. Twitter user and Windows developer Daniel spotted the new WhatsApp (via The Verge).
Oh wow, the new version of WhatsApp is now out of beta. It's a modern Windows app which replaces the old electron/web version. You can receive messages without the app being turned on, and you don't need to be connected to a phone. Download: https://t.co/10uMAH7SHI pic.twitter.com/6Xh1KKqsh0August 16, 2022
A native Mac version of WhatsApp is in the works as well.
