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How do I install WhatsApp beta on my PC?

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, with over 2 billion active users. The standard WhatsApp app allows you to send messages, photos, videos, documents, and more to friends and family for free. WhatsApp also offers a beta version of its app for PC called WhatsApp Desktop, which lets you use WhatsApp on your computer.

The WhatsApp Desktop beta includes new features that haven’t been officially released yet. Installing the beta allows you to test out these new features before they become available to everyone. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to download and install WhatsApp Desktop beta on your PC.

Requirements

To install WhatsApp Desktop beta, you need:

  • A PC running Windows 8.1 or later, or macOS 10.10 or later
  • An active WhatsApp account on your phone
  • A phone number associated with your WhatsApp account
  • A recent backup of your WhatsApp chats on your phone

How to Join the WhatsApp Desktop Beta Program

Follow these steps to join the WhatsApp Desktop beta program and get access to the latest beta version:

  1. Open WhatsApp on your phone.
  2. Go to Settings > Linked Devices.
  3. Tap on “Join Beta” under WhatsApp Desktop.

Joining the beta program will allow your WhatsApp Desktop app to automatically update to the latest beta builds. You’ll get to preview new features before they are released to the public.

Installing WhatsApp Desktop Beta on Windows

Here is how to download and install the WhatsApp Desktop beta on a Windows PC:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store on your computer.
  2. Search for “WhatsApp Desktop Beta”.
  3. Click on the WhatsApp Desktop Beta app result.
  4. Click on the “Get” button to download and install the beta.
  5. Once installed, the WhatsApp Desktop beta will open automatically. If not, launch it from your start menu.
  6. Scan the QR code displayed on the app using your phone’s camera.
  7. Tap on “Link Device” on your WhatsApp phone app to link your desktop app.

The WhatsApp Desktop beta will be linked to your WhatsApp account on your phone. Your chats will sync across devices allowing you to seamlessly message from your PC.

Installing WhatsApp Desktop Beta on Mac

To install the WhatsApp Desktop beta on a Mac, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the WhatsApp Desktop beta download page on the WhatsApp website.
  2. Click on the “Download for Mac” button to download the .dmg installer file.
  3. Once downloaded, open the WhatsApp installer file.
  4. Drag and drop the WhatsApp icon into your Applications folder to install the beta version.
  5. Launch WhatsApp Desktop beta from your Applications folder or dock.
  6. Scan the QR code shown on the app using your phone’s camera.
  7. On your phone, tap “Link Device” to link your WhatsApp Desktop beta.

The beta will now be enabled and updated automatically on your Mac. You can use all of WhatsApp’s latest features between your phone and Mac.

Using WhatsApp Desktop Beta

WhatsApp Desktop beta works just like the standard desktop app. You can:

  • Send and receive messages.
  • Send photos, videos, documents, and voice messages.
  • Create group chats.
  • See when contacts are typing.
  • Receive notifications when you get new messages.

The main difference is that the beta releases new features first before they go live for everyone. Some features currently testing in the beta include:

  • New chat bubble colors.
  • Increased group participant limits.
  • Updated message reactions.
  • Improvements to media editing.

The beta is a great way to get a sneak peek at upcoming WhatsApp features. Just keep in mind that since it’s a beta, you may encounter bugs or issues sometimes.

Tips for Using the WhatsApp Desktop Beta

Here are some useful tips for using the WhatsApp Desktop beta effectively:

  • Check for app updates regularly to get the latest beta features.
  • Report any bugs or issues you find via the app’s built-in feedback tool.
  • Back up your chats occasionally in case something goes wrong with the beta.
  • Don’t install the beta on a work or primary computer in case of app issues.
  • Make sure your desktop has the minimum system requirements to run WhatsApp Desktop.
  • Unenroll from the beta program if you want to go back to the stable public release.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the WhatsApp Desktop beta safe to install?

Yes, the WhatsApp Desktop beta is safe to install and use. It goes through extensive internal testing before being released in the beta program. However, it is recommended to not install it on your primary work computer in case of bugs.

Can I install the WhatsApp Desktop beta on multiple PCs?

No, you can only install and activate WhatsApp Desktop beta on one PC at a time. Your WhatsApp account can only be linked to one desktop device on the beta at once.

How do I uninstall the WhatsApp Desktop beta?

On Windows, go to Settings > Apps and select WhatsApp Desktop Beta to uninstall it. On Mac, drag and drop WhatsApp from Applications to Trash to uninstall.

Will my chat history be saved in the beta?

Yes, your entire chat history from your phone will sync and be available in the desktop beta. Make sure to back up your chats occasionally though.

Can I use WhatsApp Web with the desktop beta?

No, you can only have an active WhatsApp session on either WhatsApp Desktop Beta or WhatsApp Web at one time – not both simultaneously.

Conclusion

Installing WhatsApp Desktop beta lets you access the latest WhatsApp features before anyone else. It works just like the standard desktop app while giving you an early preview of upcoming updates. Just remember it’s a beta so you may encounter an occasional bug or issue.