WhatsApp’s new Windows app may tempt you to ditch the web app

WhatsApp has released a new Windows app with expanded group call participant limits and an updated interface.

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WhatsApp's new Windows app resembles its mobile counterpart more now (Image: WhatsApp)

WhatsApp on Thursday released a new Windows app that it claims loads faster and can host group video calls with up to 8 people and audio calls with up to 32 people. The new desktop app has also been designed to look like its mobile counterpart.

The new version also supports multi-device sync, meaning you can continue using WhatsApp on Windows even without your phone. Features like link previews and stickers are also present.

The messaging platform is also testing a new beta experience for Android tablets and Mac desktops, but it’s currently in “early stages.” The company introduced a new Mac client in public beta in June 2022 that brought Apple Silicone-based optimisations.

The 8 people limit in video calls and 32 people limit in audio calls will be increased over time, WhatsApp says.

WhatsApp is on a streak of introducing new features. The new app for Windows comes only a day after Mark Zuckerberg announced a couple of new updates for groups, giving admins more control over their group privacy and making it easier for users to see which groups they have in common.