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WhatsApp releases an official app for iPad

WhatsApp for iPad is here. Meta says that the native app was one of the biggest requests from users.

WhatsApp is among the most widely used instant messaging and calling app in several countries around the World. But despite its popularity, Meta had only released a native version for Android tablets over a year ago. The iPad app faced further delays having been released in a closed beta in late 2023.

Well, now you can use WhatsApp on your iPad. Telegram took a swipe at WhatsApp by trolling the announcement with a GIF featuring Robin Williams from Jumanji, asking "What year is it?". Several users also mocked WhatsApp's late arrival, while pointing out that an Instagram app for iPad still doesn't exist. It's possible that Meta wanted more users on board with Meta AI, which could have influenced the decision to bring the app to more devices.

WhatsApp for iPad lets up to 32 people to participate in video and audio calls. You can use both cameras on the tablet. The app comes with all the bells and whistles that one may expect from an iPadOS app including multitasking features such as Stage Manager, Split View, and Slide Over. That said, you will need an iPad Pro with M4, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later) and iPad Air (5th generation), iPad Air 11-inch (M2 and later), iPad Air 13-inch (M2 and later), to use Stage Manager. WhatsApp says that the iPad version has been optimized for some special features and support Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

However, WhatsApp for iPad is not a standalone app, i.e. it requires you to connect your phone via the Settings > Linked Devices menu. Essentially, this is similar to WhatsApp Web for desktop computers. If that doesn't deter you, head over to the iOS App Store to download the app on your tablet.

Early reports from users indicate that the app runs fine, and messages arrive instantly. There are some issues with it, stickers are not syncing across devices, and chat themes do not seem to be supported at the moment.

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