Earlier this year, we learned that the WhatsApp development team is working on a project. Native app for macOS. This was undoubtedly great news for any Apple computer user who could finally leave the classic app developed in Electron behind and adopt an app in the promising Catalyst.

The fundamental improvement of a native solution, at least on paper, is clear: better performance. In the past days, we have witnessed that WhatsApp has taken a big step in this regard, with the release of the DMG file to download the new application, even though it is still in beta. This Tuesday we are finally witnessing its general launch.

Goodbye app in Electron, hello app in Catalyst

We will no longer have to deal with installing an app that is still in use to immerse ourselves in the native WhatsApp experience. full development and therefore performance degradation or failure is likely. We can now download the new app directly from the App Store.

This version comes with some surprises for WhatsApp users on Mac; when they update the app they will find certain changes. First of all, it’s a new user interface that’s more in line with macOS’s design language, with a new place for buttons for Chats, Calls, Status, and more.

“Old” WhatsApp app for macOS based on Electron

These are now arranged vertically in the left panel of the application window. But there is more. The application also offers the opportunity to video calls with up to eight people and calls up to 32 people. Note that we’ve already seen the latter on Windows.

As is often the case with such global rollouts, the new app may not be immediately available in all regions. The good news is that the launch is already official, so just keep the app updated on the App Store to get the news as soon as possible.

Images: WhatsApp | Screenshot

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