WhatsApp's long-awaited debut on the iPad occurs fifteen years after its initial launch.
In a significant move for iPad owners, Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has finally released a dedicated app for Apple's tablet. This comes fifteen years after the initial release of the iPad, marking the long-awaited arrival of the popular messaging platform on a larger screen.
The new app, available on the App Store, features the classic WhatsApp interface, with two columns displaying the list of conversations and the current chat. This eliminates the need for workarounds, such as using web versions or third-party apps, which were sometimes questionable in terms of security and privacy.
Technically, the WhatsApp app for iPad is similar to the one deployed for PC and Mac, and requires an initial connection via a QR code scan from a smartphone. Once connected, users can operate the app independently, as messages are synced in real-time without the need to keep a smartphone nearby.
Meta's delay in bringing WhatsApp to the iPad has stirred much discussion over the years. While the company often cited the supposed lack of interest from iPad users as the primary reason, behind the scenes, strained relations between Apple and Meta may have played a role in the delays. This rivalry, at times necessitated by partnerships, could explain the long wait experienced by WhatsApp users on iPad.
Looking ahead, Meta may be planning to fill the last gap in its tablet catalog by bringing Instagram to iPadOS. While there's no official confirmation yet, rumors suggest that the popular social network could appear on Apple's tablet as early as 2025.
Meta's decision to finally release a WhatsApp app for iPad follows major backend changes, such as the implementation of multi-device support, which allowed users to use WhatsApp on the iPad independently of their phone's online status.
As iPad owners rejoice over this major development, it remains to be seen if Meta will continue to prioritize expanding its presence on tablet devices. With increasing competition and user demand, it seems likely that we'll see more apps adapted for the growing iPad user base.
To protect their valuable gadgets, many iPad owners might consider investing in insurance, given the potential risks of damage or loss. Given the long-awaited arrival of WhatsApp on iPad, smartphone owners might find it convenient to keep their smartphones stable and secure while using the WhatsApp app on their iPad, allowing them to take advantage of real-time messaging on both devices simultaneously.
