WhatsApp for iPad Finally Launching with Companion Mode Support

Published: May 27, 2025

After years of waiting, iPad users finally have a reason to celebrate — WhatsApp for iPad is launching, yes, WhatsApp is officially coming to the iPad!

Not only that, but it will support Companion Mode, a feature that allows you to use the app on your iPad without needing your phone to be constantly connected to the internet.

This new development has been in the works for a long time. For over a decade, users have been requesting that WhatsApp release a proper iPad app.

Until now, people had to rely on workarounds, such as using WhatsApp Web on the Safari browser, which was far from ideal. But now, things are finally changing for the better.

Table of Content

A Native WhatsApp App Just for iPad Users
What is Companion Mode?
Currently in Beta - What That Means
When Will the Full Version Be Released?
Why This Is a Big Deal
Final Thoughts
FAQs
Bonus Info Points

A Native WhatsApp App Just for iPad Users

The new WhatsApp app is being specially designed for iPads.

Unlike the mobile version, this one is built using Apple’s Mac Catalyst technology, which allows developers to create apps that work smoothly across iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

This means the new iPad version of WhatsApp won’t just be a stretched-out phone app — it will be fully optimized for the larger screen.

You’ll be able to enjoy Split View, Slide Over, and other iPad multitasking features while chatting, making the experience much more comfortable and efficient.

What is Companion Mode?

One of the biggest highlights of this new launch is Companion Mode.

This feature allows you to link your iPad to your main WhatsApp account without requiring your phone to be online at all times.

Here’s how it works:

Make sure you have the beta version of WhatsApp installed on both your iPhone and iPad.
On your iPhone, go to Settings > Linked Devices.
Tap “Link a Device”, and a QR code will appear on your iPad.
Scan the QR code using your iPhone, and your account will sync automatically.

Once set up, you’ll be able to send and receive messages, photos, videos, documents, and more on your iPad — even if your phone is turned off or not connected to the internet.

And yes, everything remains end-to-end encrypted, so your chats are still private and secure.

Currently in Beta – What That Means

Right now, the iPad version of WhatsApp is available in beta through Apple’s TestFlight program.

That means only a limited number of users can try it out at the moment, mainly to help WhatsApp test and improve the app before the final release.

While the app is said to be working very well, there are still a few minor bugs and missing features, such as:

Status updates may not always load or post correctly.
Live location sharing might not work on some devices.
Occasionally, the keyboard may not appear as expected.

That said, many beta testers have reported a positive experience.

One user even mentioned that the app is “99.9% there,” and that it feels like a proper, polished version of WhatsApp for tablets.

When Will the Full Version Be Released?

As of now, WhatsApp has not announced an exact release date for the iPad version.

However, recent social media hints from WhatsApp’s official accounts — including a mysterious “eyes emoji” in response to a user’s question — suggest that the public launch could be right around the corner.

Given the success of the beta testing and the excitement from users, it wouldn’t be surprising if the official release happens within the next few weeks or months.

Why This Is a Big Deal

This update is more than just an app — it’s a game-changer for how we use WhatsApp. Until now, users were limited to their phones or the clunky web version on iPads. With the new native app and Companion Mode:

You can use WhatsApp on a bigger screen, which is excellent for typing, reading messages, or viewing media.
You no longer need your phone to stay online.
It’s perfect for students, professionals, and families who use iPads daily and want quick access to their chats.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp’s launch on iPad with Companion Mode support is a highly anticipated and greatly appreciated update. It offers users worldwide more freedom, flexibility, and convenience.

If you’re part of the beta program, you’re already getting a taste of the future. If not, keep an eye out for updates from WhatsApp, because the full version might just arrive sooner than you think.

Until then, stay connected — on any screen you like!

FAQs

Is WhatsApp available for iPad now?

Yes, WhatsApp is now available for iPad, but only in a beta version through Apple’s TestFlight program. This means a limited number of users can try it before the official public release. WhatsApp is expected to launch the stable version soon for all users via the App Store.

Can I use WhatsApp on iPad without my phone?

Yes, you can use WhatsApp on your iPad without keeping your phone connected all the time. The new Companion Mode allows your iPad to work independently once it’s linked to your account. Your chats and data stay synced securely, even if your phone is offline.

How do I install WhatsApp on my iPad?

To install WhatsApp on your iPad, you currently need to join the beta program via TestFlight. Once installed, you can link your iPad to your phone’s WhatsApp account by scanning a QR code from the Linked Devices option. When the app is officially released, you’ll be able to download it directly from the App Store.

Does WhatsApp for iPad support voice and video calls?

Currently, the iPad beta version primarily focuses on messaging and media sharing. Voice and video calling features may not be fully available or stable yet. However, these features are expected to be added in future updates as development continues.

Is WhatsApp on iPad secure and private?

Yes, WhatsApp for iPad uses the same end-to-end encryption technology as the mobile app. This means your chats, media, and calls remain private and secure. Even on the iPad, your data is protected and cannot be accessed by anyone else, including WhatsApp itself.

Bonus Info Points

No Need for a SIM Card on iPad: Since the iPad version uses Companion Mode, you don’t need a SIM card or mobile number on the iPad itself. It simply mirrors your existing WhatsApp account.
Multi-Device Sync: You can use your WhatsApp account on up to four devices at the same time, including your iPad, without logging out from any of them.
Works with iPadOS Multitasking: The iPad app supports Split View and Slide Over, allowing you to chat while browsing, reading, or using other apps side by side.
Chat History Syncs Automatically: When you link your iPad using Companion Mode, your recent messages and chats are synced automatically for a seamless experience.
Still Under Testing: Some features, such as status updates, live location, and stickers, may not work perfectly in the beta version; however, improvements are ongoing with frequent updates.

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