WhatsApp desktop is a desktop application that allows users to access WhatsApp on their computers. It provides many of the same features as the mobile app, giving users another way to stay connected through messaging and voice/video calls.
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WhatsApp desktop serves several key purposes:
- Enables easier typing – With a full keyboard and mouse, typing long messages is faster than on a mobile device.
- Provides a larger screen – The desktop app displays conversations on a computer monitor, which is larger than a phone screen.
- Allows multi-tasking – Users can keep WhatsApp open in the background while working on other tasks on their computer.
- Backs up chats – Chats are synced between the mobile and desktop apps, serving as a backup if you lose your phone.
- Access without a phone – The desktop app can be used even without your phone nearby or turned on, as long as there is an internet connection.
In summary, the WhatsApp desktop application extends the functionality and flexibility of the mobile app to the desktop environment.
How Does WhatsApp Desktop Work?
WhatsApp desktop works by syncing with the WhatsApp account on your mobile device. Here is an overview of how it functions:
- Install and set up – Download and install WhatsApp desktop. Use the QR code scanner to link the desktop app to your account.
- Sync messages – New messages will appear on both the computer and phone apps in real-time.
- Send messages – You can send and receive messages from either device.
- View media – Photos, videos and other media sync across devices.
- Notifications – You will get desktop notifications of new messages even if WhatsApp is not open.
- Voice/video calls – Make individual or group calls right from the desktop.
Your entire WhatsApp account and message history is mirrored on desktop as long as you have an internet connection. Changes made on desktop or mobile will update across platforms.
Key Features of WhatsApp Desktop
Here are some of the most useful features available through the desktop application:
SMS Support
The WhatsApp desktop app allows you to send and receive SMS texts via a linked Android phone. This gives you access to all your messages in one place on the computer.
Dark Mode
There is a built-in dark mode that switches the visual theme to darker colors for lower brightness and an alternative look.
Keyboard Shortcuts
You can use keyboard shortcuts for common actions like starting a new chat, searching, viewing contacts, etc. This saves time compared to using the mouse.
Picture-in-Picture Video Calling
Video calls can be minimized to a small floating window so you can multitask during longer conversations. The video remains visible while working in other apps.
Message Scheduling
Draft a message and schedule a specific date and time for it to be sent. This allows you to plan messages for the future.
Sticker and Emoji Support
Just like on mobile, you have access to all of WhatsApp’s stickers, emojis, and GIFs to enhance your chats.
File Sharing
Easily share documents, spreadsheets, presentations, zip files, APKs, and all other types of files up to 2GB in size.
MacOS and Windows Apps
Desktop apps are available for both Windows PCs and Mac computers so you can use WhatsApp desktop on multiple platforms.
Benefits of Using WhatsApp Desktop
Here are some of the main benefits of using the WhatsApp desktop application:
Enhanced Productivity
The desktop environment enables faster messaging with a full keyboard, mouse, and large screen. This makes it easier to communicate while multi-tasking and getting work done.
Zero Interruptions
Get desktop notifications of new messages rather than having your phone constantly buzzing and interrupting you. Stay focused while still keeping up with conversations.
Seamless Switching
Transition seamlessly between desktop and mobile apps. Pick up chats right where you left off when switching devices thanks to full syncing.
Greater Organization
See all your individual and group chats laid out neatly in one window. Easily search through your message history to find what you need.
Enhanced Multimedia
Send, receive, and view photos, videos, and other media in higher quality on a large desktop screen compared to a tiny phone display.
Reliable Backups
Your entire chat history is backed up and accessible across mobile and desktop apps. Never lose your conversations even if you lose your phone.
WhatsApp Web vs. Desktop App
WhatsApp Web is different than the desktop app. Here is a comparison:
| WhatsApp Web | WhatsApp Desktop App |
|---|---|
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In summary, WhatsApp desktop is a standalone app with maximum functionality while WhatsApp Web is limited and relies on a connected phone.
How to Get Started with WhatsApp Desktop
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to start using WhatsApp on your computer:
- Download – Go to whatsapp.com/download and get the desktop app for your operating system.
- Install – Open the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts.
- Scan QR Code – Open WhatsApp on your phone > Settings > Linked Devices > Link a Device.
- Link – Point your phone’s camera at the QR code on the desktop screen to link it.
- Verify – Verify that the codes match on both devices. Your phone may prompt you to confirm linking.
- Sync – Once linked, your chats will start syncing across platforms.
- Use – You can now send/receive messages and use all WhatsApp features from the desktop!
The set up takes just a few minutes. Make sure to have a strong internet connection on both devices during activation.
Tips for Using WhatsApp Desktop
Following these tips will help you get the most out of the desktop app:
- Customize Notifications – Change sound, pop-ups, tray icons, and other settings so you never miss a message.
- Enable Dark Mode – Switch on this eye-friendly theme to reduce glare and strain when using the app in dim environments.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts – Learn the shortcuts for frequent actions to optimize efficiency.
- Maximize Windows – Take advantage of the large screen by maximizing chat windows for easy reading.
- Send Large Files – Transfer big documents faster from desktop than mobile.
- Make Video Calls – Enjoy HD video chatting on the big computer screen.
Master these tips to communicate faster and smarter using the desktop application.
Conclusion
WhatsApp desktop provides the familiar messaging experience of the mobile app in a desktop format. It enables seamless cross-device messaging and calling through full account syncing. The larger screen, mouse/keyboard, and native desktop notifications empower users to be more productive and organized.
While the web version has limitations, the dedicated desktop app unlocks the full feature set of WhatsApp for efficient communication on computers. It’s simple to set up and integrates directly into a work or home desktop environment. Overall, WhatsApp desktop is an essential tool for any regular WhatsApp user who wants the flexibility of messaging from their computer.