More than two years after Apple’s big move to ARM-based processors, a native version of WhatsApp Desktop is emerging: the latest, generally available macOS beta 23.1 of the messenger is delivered as a universal app and is no longer just for Intel Macs , but also adapted for Macs with Apple’s M1 and M2 chips.
WhatsApp runs fast on M1/M2 Macs
WhatsApp now opens immediately on MacBooks and desktop Macs with an Apple chip. In contrast, the version currently available in the Mac App Store, which is only intended for Intel Macs and runs on ARM Macs in the Rosetta translation layer, takes a few seconds to start.
The new macOS version has not only been modified in its substructure, but also in the user interface: It has typical iOS elements, can open system elements such as the emoji selector correctly and ultimately looks like an iPad app adapted for the Mac.
The macOS beta from WhatsApp can be download from the manufacturer’s website, it runs from macOS 11 Big Sur and continues to run on Intel Macs in addition to M1/M2 Macs. WhatsApp emphasizes that you still have to reckon with bugs. When the final version will appear in the Mac App Store remains open for the time being, the beta phase has already lasted for many months.
When is WhatsApp coming to the iPad?
As a basis, WhatsApp uses Apple’s “Mac Catalyst” technology for the new macOS version, which is primarily designed to bring iPad apps more easily to the Mac. Accordingly, it can be assumed that the new WhatsApp client will ultimately appear as an app for iPadOS.
However, a specific announcement of an iPad app is still pending, last year WhatsApp only said that they knew that many users were waiting for it – and would “love” to bring the messenger to the iPad. WhatsApp now supports standalone use on multiple devices after pairing and no longer requires a smartphone with WhatsApp to be online at the same time – a sensible basis for use on multiple devices has thus been created.
(lbe)
