WhatsApp has officially launched its highly anticipated dedicated iPad app, Meta announced on Tuesday. This new application introduces several powerful features tailored for iPad users, enabling video and audio calls for up to 32 participants, screen sharing capabilities, and seamless switching between the front and rear cameras. Previously, users wishing to access WhatsApp on their tablets were restricted to the service’s web version, accessed through an internet browser.
With this new release, WhatsApp for iPad is designed to leverage the advanced multitasking capabilities of iPadOS, including features like Stage Manager, Slide Over, and Split View. These innovations allow users to conveniently access multiple applications simultaneously, perform tasks such as messaging while browsing the internet, or even planning group activities during live calls without the need to leave the WhatsApp interface.
In addition, the WhatsApp iPad app includes full compatibility with Apple’s Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, further enhancing user experience and productivity.
The new dedicated app maintains synchronization across all linked devices, including the iPhone and Mac, ensuring users’ messages, calls, and media files remain up-to-date and secure. WhatsApp also reiterated its commitment to privacy in this launch, noting that all user communication remains protected by the platform’s robust end-to-end encryption protocol.
Although the release had been hinted at previously through a subtle online announcement from WhatsApp’s official social media channels, today’s formal launch provides clarity after months of user expectation and speculation. The news comes as Meta’s other prominent platform, Instagram, is reportedly exploring the development of its own dedicated app for Apple’s iPad.
The WhatsApp iPad app is available immediately as a free download from Apple’s App Store.
