WhatsApp rolls out open beta for native macOS client


Those keen on experiencing the open beta first-hand will need to download the .dmg install file off the WhatsApp website, as the current live version on the Apple app store is still built on Electron. — Photo by Bastian Riccardi on Unsplash

WhatsApp’s long awaited native Mac client is now available in open beta, reportedly bringing improved performance while consuming less system resources.

While previously spotted entering TestFlight – an online service for the installation and testing of mobile apps, owned by Apple – back in 2022, openings were limited with most ending up at a notice saying the beta was full.

According to the FAQ, a leap to the native desktop app should also come with increased speed and reliability along with the ability to receive messages even when a user’s phone is offline – similar to the previous native Windows client.

This also brings the user interface and design elements more in line with other native macOS apps such as Messages and Notes, including changes like the introduction of a sidebar and the ability to drag and drop files.

The open beta marks a shift from the previous web-based Electron software framework to Apple’s native Catalyst framework.

Apps built on the Catalyst framework will share code with the versions built for iPadOS, making it easier for developers to port them over to Mac.

This also comes with the advantage of allowing developers to include features specific to macOS.

It is worth noting that because the application is built on Catalyst, emojis will look like the default Mac versions rather than how the previous web-based version looked.

Those keen on experiencing the open beta first-hand will need to download the .dmg install file off the WhatsApp website, as the current live version on the Apple app store is still built on Electron.

However, compatibility is not universal with all devices – only those running macOS 11 Big Sur and above, M1-powered Macs, and certain Intel-based Macs are able to use the new client.

The macOS open beta comes some months after the Windows version of the client was pushed live in August last year.

Article type: free
User access status:
Subscribe now to our Premium Plan for an ad-free and unlimited reading experience!
   

Next In Tech News

Humans vs. machines: the fight to copyright AI art
ChatGPT chats are not confidential, so don't tell it your secrets
Amazon connecting up devices in US homes into one giant wi-fi network
Elon Musk seeks to end $258 billion Dogecoin lawsuit
Rage-tweeting: When angry consumers seek 'revenge' for bad service
Apple VR headset coming? WWDC developer conference set for June 5
Apple wins reversal of $502 million VirnetX patent infringement verdict
E3 cancels 2023 event, leaving Los Angeles without a major gaming convention
U.S. lawmakers introduce bipartisan bill to help news media negotiate with Big Tech
Activision threatened, spied on workers amid union drive, U.S. agency says

Others Also Read