After a long wait, the highly anticipated WhatsApp app has finally landed on iPad, completing the app lineup now available with iPadOS 18. This addition marks a significant moment for millions of users who have been eagerly waiting to experience WhatsApp natively on their tablet. Unlike the web version, the iPad app brings exciting features, including voice and video calls, which were sorely missing.
WhatsApp’s official iPad application has been in beta testing for nearly two years. Now, you can ditch WhatsApp Web for good! With the native app’s launch, users can enjoy many features they’ve been requesting for some time. Here are some highlights:
- Make voice and video calls
- Send and view “view-once” photos
- Send messages while offline
- Utilize iPad features like Center Stage, camera reactions, studio lights, and portrait blur
Having had the chance to test the app, I’m excited to share how the experience feels on the iPad. The WhatsApp interface for iPad capitalizes on its larger screen, allowing for a split layout that features your chat list on the left and ongoing conversations on the right. This design is reminiscent of the first beta we saw in 2023, but it works perfectly for effective multitasking.
At the bottom of the screen, you will find tabs for Updates, Calls, Communities, Chats, and Settings. If you’ve already used WhatsApp on your iPhone, navigating this app will feel familiar. When you enter a chat, look at the top for options to initiate video and voice calls—an integral part of communication that’s finally available on iPad. iPad-exclusive features like Center Stage and studio lights are also included, enriching the calling experience.
Another great addition is the ability to send “view-once” photos, adding a layer of fun and creativity. Just like on your iPhone, sending these temporary images is a breeze. Plus, you can enable voice transcripts in the settings, allowing for the convenience of reading voice notes transcribed by AI.
One of the biggest advantages of having a dedicated app is the timely message notifications. Unlike the previous setup, where you had to keep a Safari tab open for WhatsApp Web, all your alerts come through the app now. This streamlined approach enhances your overall messaging experience.
However, it’s worth noting some of the popular features that seem to be missing at launch. The app currently lacks options for creating chat filters to organize conversations conveniently. Additionally, chat themes are not present at this time, so you’ll need to wait for future updates to customize your app’s look. Setting it up as a linked device is still required, maintaining a connection to your phone.
While WhatsApp may have played it safe with initial features, it’s undoubtedly a step in the right direction. The app performs smoothly and resonates well with what users expect. So, if you’re eager to join the official WhatsApp community on your iPad, head to the App Store and download it today!
Are you wondering how to utilize the new WhatsApp features effectively? Or perhaps you have questions like, “How can I make video calls on WhatsApp for iPad?” The good news is that making a video call is as simple as tapping the call icon in a chat. It’s intuitive and user-friendly.
What should I do if my WhatsApp notifications aren’t working on my iPad? To fix this, ensure notifications are enabled in your iPad settings and check for WhatsApp app updates.
Can I use WhatsApp for iPad without having my phone connected? Unfortunately, the WhatsApp iPad app still requires your phone to be connected for it to function properly as a linked device.
And how does the feature of sending “view-once” photos work in the app? It’s straightforward—just select the photo, tap the “view-once” option, and send it. Recipients can view it only once before it disappears.
For those wondering about backup options, will my chats sync between my iPad and phone? Yes, your chats sync automatically, provided you’re using the same WhatsApp account on both devices.
Ready to explore the world of WhatsApp on iPad? Your journey starts today. Dive into more amazing tech content and insights at Moyens I/O!