WhatsApp Launches Public Beta for New Desktop App

Windows and Mac users can join just by installing the latest beta version

By
Rob Rich
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Rob Rich
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  • College for Creative Studies
Rob is a freelance tech reporter with experience writing for a variety of outlets, including IGN, Unwinnable, 148Apps, Gamezebo, Pocket Gamer, Fanbolt, Zam, and more.
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Updated on August 23, 2021 02:23PM EDT
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Rich Scherr
Rich Scherr
Fact checked by Rich Scherr
  • University of Maryland Baltimore County
Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire.
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WhatsApp has opened its own public beta program for the WhatsApp desktop app, which lets Mac and Windows users help with testing out new features.

WhatsApp has been available for computers in both web and app forms, but this is the first time the desktop version has seen a public beta. So if you've always wanted to try out new WhatsApp features before everyone else or help track down software bugs, this is your chance!

WhatsApp App in the IOS App Store on May 03, 2021 in Bargteheide, Germany. (Photo by Katja Knupper/Die Fotowerft/DeFodi Images)

DeFodi Images / Getty Images

Once installed, the WhatsApp desktop beta will keep itself up-to-date automatically, so you won't have to worry about checking for the latest beta release. According to WABetaInfo, the new beta build already is offering up some new desktop voice message features for you to try out. You'll be able to see waveforms of your message, and you'll be able to listen to your message before you send it. So you can preview your message and then decide if you'd rather delete or re-record it.

WhatsApp for desktop

WhatsApp

WABetaInfo cautions that, as this is a beta, you're likely to encounter some bugs while using the app. If you do encounter any, it's recommended that you contact WhatsApp to report the problem so it can figure out what's wrong. To send a report, go to Settings > Contact Us in the WhatsApp desktop app—and preferably attach a screenshot that illustrates the issue you're having.

If you'd like to join the WhatsApp desktop beta program, all you have to do is download the Windows or Mac beta client. So long as you're running the latest beta version (2.2133.1), you're officially part of the test.

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