WhatsApp Launches Public Beta for New Desktop App GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO News > Social Media
WhatsApp Launches Public Beta for New Desktop App
Windows and Mac users can join just by installing the latest beta version
By Rob Rich Rob Rich News Reporter 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. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on August 23, 2021 02:23PM EDT Fact checked by 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. lifewire's fact checking process Social Media Mobile Phones Internet & Security Computers & Tablets Smart Life Home Theater & Entertainment Software & Apps Social Media Streaming Gaming 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! 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 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. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Make WhatsApp Calls on a PC or Mac How to Use WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp on Your Computer How to Sign Up for Apple's iOS Public Beta Program How to Use Lockdown Mode on Mac How to Fix It When WhatsApp Isn't Working How to Send Voice Messages on WhatsApp How to Upgrade to macOS Ventura What Is Beta Software? How to Know If You've Been Blocked on WhatsApp What Is the SoundCloud Desktop App? How to Find WhatsApp Group Links Without An Invite Android 12: Release Date, Rumors, Features, and Supported Devices How to Get FaceTime on Windows How to Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number How to Fix WhatsApp Notifications Not Working How to Use WhatsApp Video Calls for Individual and Group Calls Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies