WhatsApp releases Desktop App for Windows and Mac

WhatsApp have released a desktop app so you have a new way to stay in touch anytime and anywhere – whether on your phone or computer at home or work. Like WhatsApp Web, the desktop app is simply an extension of your phone: the app mirrors conversations and messages from your mobile device.

The desktop app for WhatsApp is a welcome change for users and businesses alike. While WhatsApp Web is entirely contained in a web browser and will not present notifications if the browser is closed, the desktop application would sit quietly in the task bar and pop up only when needed

Another benefit of the full desktop client is that it introduces the potential for voice or video calls in the near future.

According to WhatsApp, the new desktop app is available for Windows 8+ and Mac OS 10.9+ and is synced with WhatsApp on your mobile device. Because the app runs natively on your desktop, you’ll have support for native desktop notifications, better keyboard shortcuts, and more.

When it comes to supported devices, there’s support for Android, iOS, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, BlackBerry 10 and Nokia S60.

To download the app, visit whatsapp.com/download from your desktop browser. Then, open the app and scan the QR code using the WhatsApp app on your phone (look for WhatsApp Web menu under Settings).