WhatsApp officially releases Windows Native App

WhatsApp has officially released its native Windows app. Previously, WhatsApp only allowed users to access the platform on a PC if they have a smartphone nearby. This was accomplished through a web-based WhatsApp desktop app or through the web browser with WhatsApp Web.

Now, the native WhatsApp Windows app will allow you to access the messaging service on your desktop natively as opposed to the old web-based backend system. While the new app won't look any different, it will allow you to chat on the platform when your smartphone is offline. The native app will run better, use fewer resources, and should launch quicker than before.

WhatsApp's new native app is only available for Windows, so Mac owners do have a small wait on their hands. WhatsApp notes that the desktop app native to Mac operating systems is currently in development. As a Mac user, you can use WhatsApp Web in your browser or download the web-based WhatsApp Desktop app. Mac users can apply for access to the beta programme of the native app here.