WhatsApp has officially launched its long-anticipated iPad app, bringing the full suite of messaging features to Apple’s tablet users for the first time. The move answers years of user demand and significantly improves the experience of using the popular platform across multiple devices.

The iPad version supports video and audio calls with up to 32 participants, screen sharing, and both front and back cameras — offering a near-identical experience to the mobile and desktop versions. Meta, which owns WhatsApp, has also optimised the app for multitasking, supporting iPadOS features like Stage Manager, Split View, and Slide Over.

This allows users to chat while browsing the web, take notes with an Apple Pencil during calls, or coordinate group travel plans with friends — all in a single session. The app is also compatible with Magic Keyboard, further aligning it with a productivity-focused workflow.

Under the hood, WhatsApp for iPad runs on the platform’s multi-device architecture, syncing chats and media securely across iPhone, Mac and other devices. Messages and calls remain protected by end-to-end encryption, with features like chat lock offering added privacy for shared devices.

While Meta says this is just the beginning of its iPad journey, the launch marks a major step in turning WhatsApp into a more versatile, cross-platform communication tool.

WhatsApp for iPad is available to download from the App Store starting today.