WhatsApp Launches On Desktop Computers

The world's most popular messaging app is now available for your desktop.

WhatsApp, which is used by 700 million users to communicate between smartphones and tablets, can now be used on desktop computers - but it still must be linked to the phone app.

For the desktop service to work, the paired phone needs an internet connection.
Currently only those using the app on Android, Windows and BlackBerry smartphones will be able to use the desktop version - so iPhone users will have to wait.

After WhatsApp announced a crackdown on third-party desktop apps, it launches its own computer-based messaging option.

The phone and desktop version can be connected by scanning a QR code

WhatsApp founder Jan Koum wrote in a Facebook post: "The web browser mirrors conversations and messages from your mobile device.

"This means all of your messages still live on your phone.
"Unfortunately for now, we will not be able to provide web client to our iOS users due to Apple platform limitations."

To set up the service, users have to visit http://web.whatsapp.com in a Google Chrome browser.
A code appears which must be scanned using the WhatsApp software.
Once completed, the app is paired with the desktop or laptop computer.

It comes as WhatsApp cracks down on users who access the service using third-party apps. Unofficial app WhatsApp Plus, for example, has been served with a cease and desist order.
WhatsApp was founded in 2009 by two former Yahoo employees. In February 2014 it was bought by Facebook for $19bn (£12.6bn).