Apple iPad users will soon be able to use WhatsApp’s dedicated app

After years of anticipation, WhatsApp is finally preparing to launch a native application tailored specifically for Apple iPad users. The widely-used instant messaging platform, owned by Meta, has subtly teased its upcoming iPad app, sparking excitement among users who have long requested this functionality. When a user requested an iPad version, the official WhatsApp account responded with a “eyes” emoji on X (previously Twitter), giving a lighthearted indication that work is almost finished.

For almost two years, WhatsApp’s iPad-specific app has been undergoing extensive beta testing via Apple’s TestFlight platform. Although the current beta slots are full and no new testers can join at the moment, early users have reported that the app performs reliably, offering a smooth and stable user interface. This prolonged testing phase reflects Meta’s focus on delivering a refined and glitch-free experience before making the app widely available.

One of the major highlights of the forthcoming iPad app is its “companion mode,” which will allow users to use WhatsApp on their iPad without needing their primary iPhone to be online. This standalone feature mirrors the functionality already seen in WhatsApp Web and Desktop, maintaining full end-to-end encryption for all chats and calls across connected devices. This ensures that conversations remain private and secure, even when accessed from multiple platforms.

The dedicated iPad version of WhatsApp is also expected to take full advantage of the iPad’s larger screen, offering a user interface that is both intuitive and visually optimized for tablets. This will likely enhance usability compared to the existing workaround of using the web app or stretching the iPhone version on iPads.

Although no exact launch date has been confirmed yet, the recent activity on social media and the maturity of the beta version suggest that the official release is imminent. The platform will reach a major milestone with the release of a native WhatsApp iPad app, providing users of Apple tablets with a long-awaited, specialized messaging experience.