WhatsApp has officially rolled out a redesigned macOS app, marking a significant step forward in how users interact with the popular messaging platform on desktop. Built specifically for macOS, the new app replaces the older Electron-based version and brings noticeable improvements in performance, design, and feature parity with the mobile experience.
Built Natively for macOS
One of the most important changes is that the new WhatsApp macOS app is now built using Apple’s native technologies, including Swift and SwiftUI. This shift allows the app to integrate more deeply with macOS, resulting in faster launch times, smoother animations, and better overall responsiveness compared to its predecessor.
Users will immediately notice that the app feels more “at home” on macOS. Scrolling is smoother, window resizing is more fluid, and system-level behaviors—such as notifications and keyboard shortcuts—work more reliably.
Improved Performance and Efficiency
Thanks to its native architecture, the app consumes fewer system resources, including CPU and memory. This is particularly beneficial for users who keep WhatsApp open throughout the day while multitasking with other applications. Battery life on MacBooks is also improved, making the app more suitable for long work sessions.
The new version supports Apple Silicon Macs more efficiently, taking full advantage of the performance gains offered by M-series chips while remaining compatible with Intel-based systems.
Enhanced Features and Functionality
The macOS app brings desktop users closer to feature parity with the mobile version of WhatsApp. Key enhancements include:
- Support for group video and audio calls, allowing up to 32 participants
- Improved multi-device syncing, ensuring messages stay in sync even when the phone is offline
- Drag-and-drop media sharing, making it easier to send photos, videos, and documents
- Faster message search, especially in long conversations
The interface has also been refined, with cleaner layouts, improved typography, and better spacing, making conversations easier to read and manage.
Better Multitasking and Window Management
Designed with productivity in mind, the new app works seamlessly with macOS features like Stage Manager, Split View, and Mission Control. Users can resize the window more freely, keep chats open alongside other apps, and switch between conversations without lag.
Keyboard shortcuts are more consistent with macOS standards, which is especially helpful for power users who rely on quick navigation and text input.
Security and Privacy Remain a Priority
WhatsApp continues to offer end-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and shared media on the macOS app. The security model remains unchanged, ensuring that conversations are private and accessible only to intended participants.
Additionally, the improved multi-device support allows users to log in on their Mac without needing their phone to stay constantly connected, while still maintaining strong encryption standards.
Availability and System Requirements
The new WhatsApp macOS app is available for download directly from the Mac App Store. It requires macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, reflecting its reliance on modern Apple frameworks. Users running older versions of macOS may need to upgrade their operating system to access the new app.
A Stronger Desktop Experience
With this release, WhatsApp has clearly signaled its commitment to delivering a high-quality desktop experience. By embracing native macOS development, the company has addressed many of the performance and usability issues that users previously faced.
For Mac users who rely on WhatsApp for both personal and professional communication, the new app offers a faster, more polished, and more capable way to stay connected—bringing the desktop experience closer than ever to what users expect on mobile.
