WhatsApp for iPad Is Finally Here — Meta Breaks Its Silence on iPad Support

After years of iPad users asking, begging, and settling with workarounds, WhatsApp for iPad has officially launched on the App Store. iPad users can now enjoy a native WhatsApp experience tailored to Apple’s tablet — no more relying on web versions or third-party hacks.

Meta Quietly Rolls Out WhatsApp for iPad

Following its classic fashion, Meta rolled out the new update with almost no fanfare, except for the subtle 👀 emoji from WhatsApp’s official X (formerly Twitter) account in response to a post asking for the long-awaited iPad app.

The App Store release notes for WhatsApp version 25.16.81 make no mention of the new iPad support, but the app now includes a dedicated iPad build.

Finally, a Big Win for iPad Users

A native WhatsApp app is a major win for iPad users—especially those who have waited patiently while relying on workarounds or third-party apps. With the native WhatsApp app, iPad users can now:

• Run WhatsApp in full-screen or Split-view
• Type with a real keyboard using Magic Keyboard or Bluetooth accessories
• Enjoy a native UI tailored for iPadOS instead of a squished iPhone layout

WhatsApp Was Missing from iPad for Years — Here’s Why

Despite WhatsApp being one of the most-used messaging platforms globally and the iPad being one of Apple’s most beloved devices, a native WhatsApp app for iPad had been mysteriously missing for years.

Even after rolling out multi-device support, WhatsApp for iPad remained stuck in beta via TestFlight—until now.

The delay in releasing a native app wasn’t entirely due to oversight. WhatsApp was built on a single-device architecture, meaning one account was tied to one phone number and one device. Although multi-device support is now available on phones, desktops, and the web, bringing this functionality to the iPad required more significant backend and UI changes.

Here are some of the key challenges Meta likely faced:

• Adapting to larger displays and multi-window support
• Dealing with iPad models that lack cellular capabilities
• Ensuring end-to-end encryption still works seamlessly across devices
• Building a consistent UI/UX with iOS and macOS versions

This technical complexity was the main reason iPad support became a slow-moving development target despite user demand.

Meta Is Finally Taking the iPad Seriously

Meta’s move to bring WhatsApp to the iPad reflects a changing tide. The company has long been criticized for neglecting the iPad platform. Facebook has had an iPad app for years, but Instagram still lacks one—though that may change soon.

With Instagram for iPad also likely in the works, this might be the beginning of Meta’s long-overdue embrace of the iPad ecosystem.

Are you excited about a dedicated WhatsApp iPad app? Comment below and let us know your thoughts.

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