If you use WhatsApp on your Windows 11 PC, there’s some big news coming your way. Nope, WhatsApp isn’t shutting down completely, but the way you use it on your computer is about to change, and not everyone will be thrilled. WhatsApp native app for Windows 11 to be discontinued Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, has confirmed in a new beta update that it’s phasing out the Native WhatsApp App for Windows 11. Instead, they’ll focus only on the WhatsApp Web version, the one you open in your browser. So if you’re still using the standalone WhatsApp app on your PC, you’ll need to switch to a browser like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox soon. A new look is coming In the latest beta version, WhatsApp displays a message saying: Updated how WhatsApp beta looks and works. This means the platform is not just changing visually, but also improving how it runs. The new design will closely resemble WhatsApp Web, and Meta is working behind the scenes to make it faster and more reliable with fewer bugs. Why is WhatsApp dropping the native app Meta’s main reason? Saving resources. Maintaining the Native App takes more effort, and Meta now prefers the browser-based version because it’s easier to update and manage. The Native App was initially designed to be light on RAM and quick, but that’s no longer a priority. Now, the focus is on convenience and quicker rollout of features. Who does this impact This shift mainly affects users on Windows 11 who’ve been using the Native WhatsApp App. Now, you’ll need a browser to access WhatsApp, which might use more RAM than the standalone app. If you’re already using WhatsApp Web, though, nothing changes for you. Ads are coming to WhatsApp status Along with the app changes, ads are being tested in the WhatsApp Status section. In the latest Android beta (version 2.25.21.11), some users are seeing ‘Sponsored’ posts between statuses, just like ads on Instagram and Facebook. This feature is limited to select beta users for now, but it’s likely to roll out widely soon.
