Users of WhatsApp on Mac have to wait until 28. October 2024 switch to a new version of the app. The messenger service Meta has announcedthat the previous one Electron-based Version of the WhatsApp app for macOS is set. As a replacement, a new version is available, which is available on the Catalyst-Technology based and clear more liquid should run. This step is intended to Performance and the System integration improve the application.
The new WhatsApp app: Catalyst instead of Electron
The previous WhatsApp app for Mac was based on Electrona framework that allows developers to develop apps for multiple platforms simultaneously. However, this solution has the disadvantage that the apps are often not as performant and natively integrated into the system as programs developed specifically for the operating system. This led to the app partially slower ran and was less responsive.
With the new appthat are on Apple’s Catalyst-Technology based, this will now be different. Catalyst allows developers to bring existing iPad apps to the Mac with minimal customization. The new WhatsApp app is based on the iPhone version and therefore runs natively on macOS. This change makes for a significantly better one System integration and one faster and more fluid User experience.
What users should consider
Users of the previous WhatsApp version on the Mac still have until 28. October 2024 Time to switch to the new app. The old version will no longer be supported after this date. Users who use the old app will be informed in the application that it will soon end and will receive a direct notification Link to the new version offered. This new app can be accessed either via the Apple App Store or directly via the WhatsApp-Website be downloaded.
However, the new version still lacks some functions that were available in the old app. For example, these are Community tab and Channels not yet integrated. However, Meta has announced that it will add these features in future updates.
Future prospects: WhatsApp for iPad?
The introduction of the new Catalyst-based WhatsApp app for the Mac has raised hopes among many users that one will soon be available WhatsApp version for iPad could appear. There is currently no official confirmation from Meta, but such a port would be technically relatively easy to implement, as Catalyst would allow the Mac app to be transferred directly to the iPad. This is a feature that many users have been expecting for a long time, as WhatsApp currently only has the Web browser could be used on tablets.
Using WhatsApp in the browser remains possible
Despite the discontinuation of the old app, users can still use WhatsApp Browser use. Over web.whatsapp.com The messenger can still be used by connecting the WhatsApp account with one QR-Code linked. However, browser use is considered less secure than the native app as it is more vulnerable to Phishing attacks and other security issues. Nevertheless, the browser version remains an alternative for users who do not want to install an app.
Conclusion: Better performance, but not yet perfect
The new WhatsApp app for Mac offers many improvements over the old version, especially in terms of Performance and Integration into the system. However, some functions are still missing, which will be supplemented by updates in the coming period. Mac users should switch to the new version by October 28th to continue using WhatsApp on their computer. The prospect of a possible iPad version makes the introduction of the new app even more interesting, but for now it remains only a hope.
