WhatsApp has launched desktop clients for Mac and Windows following its release of first web app.

The Facebook-owned company announced in an official blog statement that the new app will include features like desktop notifications, keyboard shortcuts, and a lot more.

The new desktop app has made this even a better app for people who continue to use the Internet for communicating with people in other departments across the countries. This new tool makes the service more accessible and is likely aimed at helping to accelerate growth. WhatsApp already counts more than 1 billion monthly active users, but that number could soon be surpassed by its messaging cousin at Facebook.

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WhatsApp’s desktop app works on computers with MacOS X 10.9 and Windows 8, or higher. After installing the app, users have to scan a QR code using the WhatsApp app on their mobile device, which is located under Settings > WhatsApp Web. If the QR code is recognized, users will be able to authenticate on the desktop. WhatsApp for desktop connects to users’ phone to sync messages, so potentially quite a bit of data will be transmitted, depending on usage. The company advises that users should connect their phone to Wi-Fi.

The desktop counterpart of WhatsApp is essentially the same as the mobile version. Users can see and check their contacts as well and attach emojis and files to messages. Voice dictation is supported as well. Users will be able to send the cross files to each other even if they are on Windows and Mac.

“Just like WhatsApp Web, the new desktop app lets you message with friends and family while your phone stays in your pocket,” WhatsApp stated in a blog post.

The new desktop app puts WhatsApp more on par with competitors like Facebook Messenger, Skype, and Telegram.

TagsWhatsApp, messaging app, Mac, windows, WhatsApp dekstop app, Facebook Messenger, Skype