It’s better late than never. Meta, the folks behind the highly popular WhatsApp messaging app, has finally launched a dedicated app for Apple’s equally popular iPad tablet. Available via the App Store on your iPad, the tablet version now lets you stay in touch with friends via a larger screen, and typing on a keyboard.
Previously, WhatsApp was available on the iPad via a web-based browser but this update supports many of the features that makes the app so popular on mobile phones, namely group audio and video calls with up to 32 people, sharing your screen with other participants on the call, and the use of both your rear and front cameras on device.
Additionally, WhatsApp for iPad supports iPadOS multitasking features including Stage Manager, Split View, and Slide Over to view multiple apps at once. This split-screen view makes sense on a larger screen, as users can send messages while surfing or watching videos on their iPad, compared to having to switch between apps on their phone.
This update has been a long time coming, as WhatsApp made its debut in 2009, a year before the iPad was introduced in 2010, yet it took 15 years for Meta to support Apple’s tablet.
Do note that Stage Manager is only available on select iPad models – 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).
Hsals needs more space in his house, and more money in his bank account to pay for all the toys, collectibles and other geek related items that companies are churning out. Free-time? Girlfriend? Who’s got time for those?
