Mac Rumors reported that since 2020, Apple silicon Macs have been capable of using the Electron-based Intel version of WhatsApp for Mac. However, a native version of the app has not been made available. It is worth noting that on M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, and M2 devices, an Apple silicon optimized Universal app should operate more quickly and with fewer resources.
However, things could be about to change.
WhatsApp Launches Beta Version of Its New macOS App
Since last year, WhatsApp reportedly has been developing a new universal app for macOS and iPadOS. Now that WhatsApp has just made a beta version of its new macOS app based on Catalyst technology, 9to5Mac noted it appears that this app is now nearing an official debut.
Before anything else, it's important to note that the new macOS WhatsApp app is not a standalone WhatsApp client. This means you still need to connect your iPhone or other smartphone to your WhatsApp account.
Currently, a beta version of the macOS app allows Mac users to access WhatsApp. On the other hand, this application is wholly based on WhatsApp Web and uses the Electron framework. Because of this, the current WhatsApp for Mac app runs slowly and consumes more CPU and memory than it should, as per 9to5Mac.
However, the messaging app now has a native version of its app for Mac users that is quicker and operates without a hitch on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs thanks to Catalyst technology, which enables developers to bring iOS apps to macOS. The new app, which is based on WhatsApp for iPhone, has a very different design from WhatsApp Desktop, as originally spotted by WABetaInfo.
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Updated Design of WhatsApp Beta
According to Mac Rumors, the revamped design of WhatsApp has a more Mac-like design with a dedicated sidebar, and it is noticeably faster than the previous version.
The chat interface similarly resembles Apple's, with Mac-like icons and a simplified UI that feels more at home on Apple's devices. Access to Chats, Calls, Archived, Starred, and Settings is made quick and easy via the sidebar.
Some Beta Features Might Not Fully Function
It is an early beta, therefore certain features might not work completely, according to Mac Rumors (via WABetaInfo).
Meanwhile, 9to5Mac mentioned that some functionalities, such as Status, group calls, location sharing, and audio messaging, are still having issues. These features will probably be included in later releases, but this is a very early beta, so that is to be expected. However, everything operates as expected when sending and receiving standard messages and calls, and the app is unquestionably faster than the Electron version.
When Will It Launch?
The updated WhatsApp for Mac app is currently under development. No release date has been mentioned.
Where to Download the Beta
You can sign up on TestFlight to try out the new WhatsApp beta for Mac. The new WhatsApp beta app for macOS may not be available to you due to the limited number of slots.
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