WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, with over 2 billion active users. It is available for various platforms like Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and the web. WhatsApp frequently releases new updates with bug fixes, new features, and performance improvements. Knowing your current WhatsApp version on Mac can help ensure you are running the latest available release.
Check WhatsApp Version from Within the App
The easiest way to check your WhatsApp version on Mac is directly within the app itself. Here are the steps:
- Open WhatsApp on your Mac.
- Click on the WhatsApp menu option in the top toolbar.
- Select “About WhatsApp” from the dropdown menu.
This will open up a popup window with details about your installed WhatsApp version along with some other app information. Look for the number adjacent to the “Version” field. For example, if you see “Version 2.2245.8” it indicates your WhatsApp version is 2.2245.8.
Check via Finder on Mac
You can also find the WhatsApp version on Mac through Finder, which shows file information. Follow these steps:
- Open Finder on your Mac.
- In the left sidebar, select “Applications” to open your apps folder.
- Scroll and find the WhatsApp app icon.
- Right click on the WhatsApp app and select “Get Info.”
A Finder info window will open up for the WhatsApp app. Under the “General” section, look for the “Version” field. This will show your current installed WhatsApp version number.
Using System Information on Mac
The System Information utility on Mac provides detailed system data, including version info of installed apps. Follow these steps to check WhatsApp version:
- Open Finder and select “Applications” in the sidebar.
- Launch the “Utilities” folder.
- Open the “System Information” app inside it.
- Select “Applications” in the left column of the System Information window.
- Search for “WhatsApp” in the right panel.
- Check the “Version” field for the version number.
This will show your current WhatsApp version along with other application details without needing to open WhatsApp itself.
Check from App Store Updates
If WhatsApp was installed on your Mac via the App Store, you can check its version from there as well. Here’s how:
- Open the App Store on your Mac.
- Click on your profile icon in the lower left corner.
- Select “Purchases” from the dropdown menu.
- Scroll through the list and locate WhatsApp.
- The version number will be shown below the app name.
This is useful to directly compare with the latest WhatsApp version available on the App Store. An “Update” button next to it means a newer version is available for download and install.
Using Terminal to Check Version
You can also find the WhatsApp version installed on your Mac using Terminal. Follow these steps:
- Open Terminal on your Mac (typically located in Applications > Utilities)
- Enter the following command and press Return:
defaults read /Applications/WhatsApp.app/Contents/Info.plist CFBundleShortVersionString - The WhatsApp version number will be shown after running the command.
This fetches the version details from WhatsApp’s Info.plist file. It will work for any app if you update the app name and path in the command.
Should You Update to the Latest Version?
WhatsApp frequently releases new updates with improvements and bug fixes. It is generally recommended to keep WhatsApp updated to the latest version. Here are some key reasons for updating regularly:
- Security patches – Updates often contain important security fixes for vulnerabilities.
- New features – Updates give you access to latest features added on WhatsApp.
- Performance improvements – Updates include optimizations for faster speed.
- Bug fixes – Key bugs may be resolved in app updates.
- Compatibility – Updates add support for latest OS and device versions.
However, some WhatsApp users may want to avoid immediately updating to the latest version when available. Reasons can include:
- Stability concerns – Major updates can sometimes introduce new bugs and issues that get resolved in subsequent releases.
- Change resistance – Users comfortable with existing version may not want major interface or functional changes.
- Feature preferences – Users may want to retain certain old features replaced in the latest update.
- Device compatibility – Very old devices may lose support in latest updates.
But in general, keeping your WhatsApp version updated is recommended for best experience. When updating, it’s also a good idea to backup your WhatsApp chats in case something goes wrong with the app after an update.
Key Version History for WhatsApp on Mac
Here is a brief look at some major WhatsApp versions for Mac and the changes they brought:
| Version | Release Date | Major Changes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.2245.8 | Oct 2022 | Bug fixes |
| 2.2242.8 | Sept 2022 | Added Call Links feature |
| 2.2234.9 | Aug 2022 | View once images support, UI fixes |
| 2.2216.9 | Jun 2022 | Admin delete message, media improvements |
| 2.2206.9 | May 2022 | Reactions, increased file sharing limit |
This table highlights some notable WhatsApp versions for Mac over the last few months and major features or changes introduced in them.
Conclusion
There are various handy ways to check your current WhatsApp version on Mac, whether directly within the app, via Finder, App Store or using Terminal. Keeping WhatsApp updated to the latest version is generally recommended for best experience, security and access to newest features. But some users may want to avoid upgrading right away to each new version as well. Knowing your current WhatsApp version on Mac can help you decide if an update is needed and take advantage of all the latest additions and improvements.