WhatsApp Launches Public Beta for New Desktop App

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!

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.

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.