After years of waiting, the world’s most widely used messaging service has finally launched a native app for iPad, Meta confirmed in a statement. The app, now available via the Apple App Store, brings full functionality to Apple’s tablet lineup, including audio and video calls, split-screen multitasking and secure end-to-end encryption.
The move ends a 16-year omission from the platform, despite WhatsApp’s availability on nearly every other major device. The app’s absence was particularly glaring, given that WhatsApp launched on iPhone back in 2009—over a year before the first iPad hit the shelves.
Optimised for multitasking and video calling
The new iPad app has been designed with tablet users in mind. It takes advantage of the iPad’s larger screen with a split-view interface—contacts on the left, conversations on the right—and integrates smoothly with iPadOS features such as Slide Over, Stage Manager and Split View.
Users can now place and receive group video or audio calls with up to 32 participants. The app supports both front and rear cameras, screen sharing, and other collaboration tools essential for remote working or family chats. It also works seamlessly with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard accessories.
‘WhatsApp on iPad will feel instantly familiar to long-time users,’ Meta stated. ‘It’s built to deliver the full messaging experience without compromising on usability.’
Better than browser workaround
Until now, iPad users had to rely on WhatsApp Web via their browser to access messages—a workaround that lacked essential features like notifications, camera integration and proper file sharing. The new app finally brings parity with the mobile and desktop experience.
End-to-end encryption remains a core feature of the new iPad version. This means all messages, calls and shared media remain secure across all devices, with Meta unable to read or intercept user communications.
The company said this release marks ‘only the beginning’ of WhatsApp’s journey on iPad, hinting at additional features in future updates. Users are encouraged to submit feedback to shape the development roadmap.
Meta pushes ahead with new WhatsApp strategy
The iPad app is not the only major update to the messaging platform. Meta recently announced that adverts will soon appear within WhatsApp—a historic first for the service. Ads will show between Status updates and within Channels, allowing businesses and creators to promote content directly to users.
Despite this commercial pivot, Meta has pledged not to compromise user privacy. It insists that personal chats, calls and groups will not be scanned or used to target ads. Phone numbers will remain private and communications fully encrypted.
This advertising shift marks a break from the original ethos of WhatsApp, whose co-founders once vowed never to monetise the platform through ads. Still, Meta says the changes are necessary to support a growing ecosystem of business tools and content creators.
Instagram app for iPad still missing
While iPad users celebrate the long-awaited WhatsApp app, Instagram remains the notable holdout. Meta has yet to launch a dedicated iPad version of the photo-sharing platform, despite years of requests and ongoing speculation. Users must continue using a resized version of the iPhone app until further notice.
For now, the WhatsApp update marks a significant leap forward for Apple tablet users—delivering full messaging and calling power to a device once excluded from Meta’s core rollout plans.
