WhatsApp has released a new version of its Windows app that is no longer dependent on your smartphone and can function completely independently.
The WhatsApp client for Windows 11 (and 10) was previously a web-based (Electron) effort, but the new app – which has just moved from beta to full release, according to The Verge(opens in new tab) – is a native client, and it works independently of your smartphone.
In other words, even if your phone is turned off, you will receive messages in the Windows desktop WhatsApp client.
Expect WhatsApp to run much more smoothly on Windows as native messaging software, and the interface to look a little smarter and more streamlined.
You can get the updated app from the Microsoft Store(opens in new tab), but keep in mind that not everyone appears to have access to the new version just yet, and it appears that WhatsApp is gradually rolling out the new app in stages.
So, if you’re still seeing the old version in the store, be patient and wait a little longer; the new client is on its way, don’t worry.
