After years of preparation, WhatsApp finally allows the messenger service to be used without a smartphone being actively connected to the Internet. This is made possible by a new app that is initially being offered for Windows.
WhatsApp had already introduced multi-device use in November 2021. At that time it was still in the beta phase. In the months that have passed since then, however, the messenger has further expanded the function and is now offering an application for Windows that allows WhatsApp to be used without a smartphone. TECHBOOK explains how it works and what users need to watch out for.
Use WhatsApp on Windows PCs without a smartphone – this is how it works
With WhatsApp Web, users can already use the service on a classic PC or laptop. However, it is necessary here that the device is paired with the smartphone in order to send or receive new messages. This is different with the new application for Windows. According to WhatsApp, the native app for PCs is not only faster and more stable, it also offers the decisive advantage that it can also be used without a smartphone. Both devices only have to be linked once.
Using WhatsApp without a smartphone works as follows: Users first download the “WhatsApp Desktop App” onto their Windows PC. It can be downloaded free of charge from the Windows App Store. Then open the Messenger app on your smartphone and click on the symbol with the three dots (Android) or on the settings (iPhone) in the top right corner. Here you will find the item “Linked Devices”, via which WhatsApp on the Windows laptop can be linked to the main account on the smartphone. All you have to do is scan the displayed QR code with your mobile phone.
As soon as the Windows laptop is paired with the smartphone, WhatsApp can continue to be used even if the cell phone is offline or not at all nearby. So that the connection is permanent, you should actively use the paired smartphone at least once within 14 days.
Also read: How to use WhatsApp Web on PC
App for Mac still in progress
Like WhatsApp in his FAQs writes, a corresponding app for Mac users is currently in the works. The Messenger therefore still refers you to the classic WhatsApp Web. Now that the application for Windows is ready, a release of the native app for Mac shouldn’t take too long.