WhatsApp Latest Update: You Can Now Use WhatsApp Desktop In n Windows and Mac
WhatsApp has finally brought its hugely popular messaging platform to the PC for both Windows and Mac users. Prior to the launching of its native desktop app, users can only use it via third-party apps or the site's web version. The Facebook-owned company announced in an official blog statement that the new app will include features like desktop notifications, keyboard shortcuts, and a lot more.
The launching was preceded by leaked screenshots as per Times of India indicating the native desktop app will soon arrive that would enable WhatsApp users to do their messaging activities and file sharing from their PC. With this latest development, the messaging platform joins its cousin Facebook Messenger and Microsoft-owned Skype.
By making an inroad among PC users, the development will further accelerate the growth WhatsApp has seen over the years. Currently, WhatsApp already has more than a billion users around the world.
Similar to web-based WhatsApp version, the native desktop app needs to be synched with your smartphone. This basically means that the handset would have to be turned on and connected to the internet.
The rationale for this seemingly inconvenient requirement is to strengthen the app's security by sending all incoming messages to one specific device to provide protection from potential account hacking, the Independent reported. Furthermore, account users are forced to sign in with their phone number and prohibits people from installing the app on other platforms like tablets. This makes the messaging service essentially mobile first, PC second.
Meanwhile, the release of the desktop app comes at a highly contentious timing as the company is embroiled in legal issues with the Brazilian government, particularly with the law enforcement agencies, over the controversial access to user data. A judge has already suspended WhatsApp's service nationwide twice and even ordered the jailing of a Facebook executive over its apparent refusal to hand over the requested data as mentioned in a Venture Beat report.
