WhatsApp has finally arrived to iPhone users almost a year after the free call and chat service launched its web client for Android users. The web client for the app has been launched on Wednesday, Aug 19. WhatsApp will now be able to work on the iOS internet browser, Safari, on Mac. WhatsApp for Web has earlier been made available for Microsoft, BlackBerry and Windows Phone among others.
To get WhatsApp for Web working, one will have to access the website and scan the QR code via the mobile app. According to Tech 2, the QR code-scanning feature has not rolled out to all iPhone users. It will be made available in phases. New features for the call-and-chat app are coming with WhatsApp's web platform. The made-for-iPhone version has also integrated some new functions which can be handy for its users.
The app, which Facebook purchased last year, now enables users to set individual chat on mute. Much like in the social networking giant's Messenger, messages may be marked as read and unread. This enables users to manage message threads better and keep track of the most recent conversations they have had. Apart from those previously mentioned, WhatsApp also has backup videos and location-sharing features.
With the web component of the app, users will be able to change profile pictures and write status messages. Other changes in the user interface of the app enable users to delete message threads or archive them, for when chats have already begun overflowing; thus, users can always get back on some important details in the thread. This option gives more control for both individual chats and group conversations, such features that are more visible in mobile versions of similar apps.
WhatsApp is a cross-platform app that allows users to chat, call and send image and audio files for free. The app has been released in 2009, and is the most popular messaging app. It recorded over 800 million active users in April 2015. WhatsApp was acquired by Facebook in February 2014.
