There is still no official WhatsApp app available on the App Store that works on iPads. However, you can still use the network through the web interface. If you are not familiar with this online platform, don’t worry. We’ve created a simple step-by-step guide for you that will help you get everything set up in just a few minutes.
Use WhatsApp on an iPad
WhatsApp users who already use the app on their computer will find the guide below very familiar, as the platform used for iPad is the same. As mentioned, there is no app available for iPad yet, meaning the only way to use it is through an internet browser.
The following guide will help you sync your WhatsApp account on your iPad with the latest version of iPadOS. With versions earlier than iPadOS 12, you’ll need to perform some additional steps. This is what you should do:
- Open Safari and go to web.whatsapp.com. With the latest versions of iPadOS, the desktop version of WhatsApp Web will automatically appear. With older versions, you’ll get an older home page. Press and hold the refresh button until the “Load Desktop Site” option appears and tap on it.
- On the main page you will find a QR code. Leave the page open and go to your phone that has WhatsApp installed.
- From the WhatsApp app on your phone, go to “Settings.”
- Tap “Paired Devices.” Your camera will open.
- Scan the QR code that appears on the iPad.
- The browser page should refresh and show all your WhatsApp activity.
And just like that, you can start using WhatsApp on your iPad. You can create an app shortcut on your home screen to quickly access WhatsApp in the future. Here’s how to do it:
- Open WhatsApp Web in your internet browser.
- Tap the “Share” icon in the upper right corner.
- Choose “Add to Home Screen” from the menu that appears.
- Select “Add.”
You will now have a WhatsApp icon on your home screen that will immediately take you to the web version of the application.
If you use WhatsApp Business, the process will be the same. For those who haven’t heard of WhatsApp Business, it is the version of the app that has become a hit among small businesses and startups. It allows you to create a complete profile with your business information, create a catalog and automatic responses, among other functions.
The first time you sync your WhatsApp account, it may take a while for all your messages to load, depending on your internet connection and the number of messages you have in the app. The best part is that your account will remain logged in until you decide to log out.
While we strongly recommend using official sources of apps and programs, some users may not be fans of the web version of WhatsApp and prefer to have an app installed. For those users, there are third-party apps available on the App Store that are worth trying. Some of the most popular are Messenger for WhatsApp, Whats Web App and Messaging for WhatsApp on iPad.
In comparison, WhatsApp’s web interface does not require the installation of external applications, which may seem to compromise the security of our devices or the information we share. Remember that WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption technology that guarantees the privacy of the messages and files we share with any other WhatsApp user.
Most of these apps are available for free, but keep in mind that they may not use the same technology to ensure the security of your messages. Please review them carefully before downloading any third-party software.
Can I use WhatsApp on an iPad without a phone?
As explained in the previous guide, using WhatsApp on an iPad is only possible by scanning the QR code displayed on the WhatsApp Web main page. For that reason, it is not possible to access your WhatsApp account on your iPad unless you have an active account on your phone. This may change once an official app is released, but we’ll have to wait to see what WhatsApp has in store for future updates.
With the online version of the app, once syncing is complete, you won’t need to rely on your phone to use it. However, you will need to stay connected to Wi-Fi. Otherwise, you will lose connection on your iPad and not sync your messages properly.
Is WhatsApp Web similar to the application?
Using WhatsApp on your iPad will allow you to send and receive messages, exchange multimedia files, and even send voice notes. However, there are some limitations, similar to when you use WhatsApp from your computer. The most important thing is that you will not be able to make calls.
Another important limitation is network speed. You may notice a little delay in receiving messages and general web browsing. Considering this is not an app, it is completely normal. If you like quick-response navigation, you’ll have to stick with your phone for now.
With a stable Wi-Fi connection, WhatsApp Web can be configured to reliably forward notifications and calls. This allows you to work from a larger screen and without switching devices during projects.
WhatsApp on iPad
If you’ve been wondering how to use WhatsApp on your iPad, we hope you found this guide useful. Remember that there may be some limitations regarding what you can and cannot do, but the main features of WhatsApp will be available and will work perfectly. With the most recent introduction of a PC app, WhatsApp could soon launch an iPad-compatible app.
Leave us a comment below telling us all about your experience using WhatsApp on your iPad.
