WhatsApp on Windows now has a native app that works standalone, sans the need to connect your mobile device to send or receive messages.
After being in beta for quite a while, the native Windows app of the instant messaging service is now officially available on the Microsoft Store.
But how about the folks using Apple macOS machines?
WhatsApp Windows Native App
As per the latest report by The Verge, WhatsApp formally announced that the new version of its Windows app is now available for download on the Microsoft Store, the official app marketplace for PC users.
The news outlet reports that the new Windows app of the Meta-owned end-to-end messaging platform is now a standalone software. It means that the latest version no longer requires its users to link their smartphones.
The Verge notes that the previous version of WhatsApp on Windows is a web-based app. In addition to that, its users could also access it via their web browsers.
But the web-based version of WhatsApp for desktop requires users to link their mobile devices to send, receive, or even sync their messages.
New WhatsApp Windows App: What to Expect
This time, the new Windows app no longer needs to be linked to a smartphone.
Besides being standalone, it sports a new organized and simple look. Not to mention that WhatsApp touts its performance to be better than ever.
However, The Verge notes that the overall design of the new Windows app still looks similar to the older look at first glance. But there are a few refinements, making it look generally cleaner.
On top of the redesign, the Microsoft Store listing of the new app boasts that it has improved its overall speed and reliability.
And what's more, its users could now receive and send messages even if their mobile devices are offline. Therefore, it completely ditches the need for it to connect to a smartphone.
How About Apple macOS Users?
Now that Windows users can enjoy a native standalone app for the messaging service, it leaves out millions of macOS users.
But according to a recent report by 9to5 Mac, the folks behind WhatsApp are working to also release a native app for Apple Mac users.
In fact, the online media outlet notes that the native Mac app has already debuted its first public beta.
The new version stays away from being web technologies, 9to5 Mac reports. Instead, it is heavily based on the iOS version of WhatsApp, boosting its overall performance.
So it should not take long before macOS users could also get their hands on a native WhatsApp software like what Windows users now readily enjoy.
