On both Android and iOS, WhatsApp has continuously held the top spot for messaging apps. There are several things WhatsApp is capable of, like delivering instant messages, making full-featured video calls, and processing payments. The iPad is one platform, meanwhile, that the Facebook-owned messaging service has not given much attention to. Therefore, we are here to make things simpler for you if you are someone who is bored of waiting for an official WhatsApp for iPad app. To help you immediately learn how to set up and use WhatsApp on your iPad, we have produced a comprehensive guide.
How to Use WhatsApp on iPad in 2022
The article includes information on the limits you can run into while using WhatsApp on your iPad in addition to instructions on how to use it. Use the table below to skip to that section if you would want to learn more about them first.
Set up and Use WhatsApp on iPad
Although there isn’t an official WhatsApp iPad app, using WhatsApp on an iPad is really simple thanks to the new WhatsApp multi-device capability. You only need to complete a quick setup once, and you’re ready to go. Furthermore, you may use WhatsApp on the iPad immediately without having to keep your smartphone connected.
How to install WhatsApp on an iPad is as follows:
- Head over to the WhatsApp Web website in Safari on your iPad. You should see a QR code on the screen.
- On your Android phone or iPhone, go to WhatsApp Settings -> Linked Devices. Here, tap on Link a Device .
That’s all; you can now use WhatsApp on your iPad without having to have your smartphone connected to the internet. Please be aware that depending on your network speed and the volume of messages you have on WhatsApp, it may take some time for all of the messages to download the first time you link your WhatsApp account to your iPad.
Create a Home Screen Shortcut for WhatsApp on iPad
You may now access WhatsApp whenever you want by opening Safari after setting up WhatsApp on your iPad. On your iPad‘s home screen, you may also add a WhatsApp shortcut if you wish to simplify things. This way, you can easily access WhatsApp on iPad from the home screen. Here s how you can do this.
- Tap on Add to Home Screen .
- Tap on Add .
That s it, a shortcut to WhatsApp Web will now be added to your home screen, complete with the WhatsApp icon. You can just tap on this icon and launch WhatsApp web on your iPad easily.
Now that you have WhatsApp up and running on your iPad, you can use all the features available in the web version of the messaging app with ease. You can not only text people but also send them images, documents, and voice messages like you would do otherwise. Moreover, you can even view WhatsApp Status anduse the dark theme in WhatsApp Web.
Does WhatsApp Work Natively on iPad?
While WhatsApp is available on Android, iOS, and PC, it is currently not available for the iPad officially. The App Store listing is only for iPhone users and as such iPad users cannot use WhatsApp. For that to change, WhatsApp will need tolaunch an official iPad version of the app.
Will WhatsApp Ever Come to Apple iPad?
Yes, Whatsapp could soon have a native iPad app. A while back, prominent WhatsApp tipster WABetaInfo revealed the possibility of the iPad having a standalone WhatsApp app. This report was fueled by WhatsApp s multi-device support, the details of which we will discuss below.
Apparently, the reason it s taking time is that WhatsApp needs to properly port the end-to-end encryption (and other core features) before an iPad app is made available to users. However, as things stand, there is a strong possibility that WhatsApp will get a dedicated iPad app soon.
Third-Party Apps to Use WhatsApp on iPad
We recommend sticking to the above method as it s not only the easiest but also a free method to use WhatsApp on your iPad. However, if you are inclined towards using a third-party app to get the job done, you can find many on the App store. Now be aware these apps use the same WhatsApp web framework and create their own overlay around it. However, if you are the type of iPad user who loves dedicated apps, you will need to wait for the official one.
For iPad users still wanting to check out a third-party option, we recommend the three selections below:
1. Messaging for WhatsApp on iPad
This third-party WhatsApp app is the most popular on the App Store with a ton of positive ratings. This paid app goes through the same steps of QR code scanning as explained above. However, it will make your life easier by opening WhatsApp in the form of an app, thereby only requiring users to scan and get started in a jiffy. However, do be aware that since this acts as a companion app, there will be periodic lag that might take away from your experience.
Get Messaging for WhatsApp on iPad(Paid, $2.99)
2. Whats Web App +
This companion app for WhatsApp on the iPad boasts encrypted app protection and multiple account management. So if you are a user who wants to log in with multiple WhatsApp numbers, this might be the one for you. Whats Web App+ even gives users access to a neat Status creator with templates and other customizations. However, do be aware that you will see in-app advertisements from time to time and must pay a fee to get rid of them.
Get Whats Web App +(Free, supports in-app purchases)
3. Messenger for WhatsApp ++
Another third-party app to get WhatsApp on the iPad, Messenger for WhatsApp++ is another lightweight addition to the list. Like before, you need to scan a QR code to set it up. Additional features include locking the app to protect your chats and chat reminders, which allow users to set up reminders to respond to specific conversations. You can even create Birthday reminders to ensure you don t forget to wish your friends or family members.
Get Messenger for WhatsApp ++(Free, supports in-app purchases)
Are There Any Limitations to Using WhatsApp on iPad?
While the WhatsApp experience on iPad is decent even without the app, there sure are some limitations. Here are some you should expect while going ahead and using it.
1. Occasional Lag
During your day-to-day operation, you might encounter a touch of lag or two. Since we cannot use WhatsApp s native app on the iPad right now, this is completely natural. So if you are the type of user who wants to have a lightning-fast response, you better stick to your phone.
2. Different Contacts List
WhatsApp on the iPad will pull the list of contacts and conversationsfrom your phoneand not from your iPad. It is not something you can circumvent as of now.
3. Needs an Existing Account
You will need an existing WhatsApp account on your mobile to install and use WhatsApp on the iPad.
4. No Voice & Video Calling
While WhatsApp has startedtesting voice and video calling on its desktop appfor Mac and Windows, you can t access these features on the web version. So yeah, you will not be able to voice or video call your friends and family even if you start using WhatsApp on an iPad via the workaround explained above.
Use WhatsApp on Your iPad in a Few Easy Steps
We hope this guide will be useful in helping you figure out how to set up and use WhatsApp on your iPad. There sure are some limitations to the experience right now, but it will become a whole lot better once the native iPad app and multi-device support arrive on WhatsApp. If you are content with using the messaging app on your phone, try these bestWhatsApp tips and tricksto further enhance your experience. And well, if you are privacy-conscious and want a cross-device messaging app to ditch WhatsApp altogether, go ahead and check out thesebest WhatsApp alternatives. Need help in setting up WhatsApp on your iPad? Ask your questions in the comments below, and we will help you out.