WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, used by over 2 billion people across 180 countries. It offers free, encrypted messaging and calling and is available for smartphones, tablets and computers. Downloading WhatsApp is easy and only takes a few minutes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to download WhatsApp on your device.
What Devices Can I Use WhatsApp On?
WhatsApp is available on the following platforms:
- Android phones and tablets
- iPhone and iPad
- Some Nokia S40 phones
- Windows Phone 7.1 and higher
- BlackBerry OS phones running BlackBerry 10
- Windows PCs through WhatsApp Web or desktop app
- Mac computers through WhatsApp Web or desktop app
So whether you have an Android, iOS, Windows or Blackberry device, you’ll be able to use WhatsApp. The app is also accessible through a desktop browser, expanding your messaging options.
Downloading WhatsApp on an iPhone
Downloading WhatsApp on an iPhone is very straightforward:
- Go to the App Store on your iPhone.
- Search for “WhatsApp Messenger”. The app is published by WhatsApp Inc.
- Tap on the Get button to begin downloading WhatsApp.
- You may be prompted to enter your Apple ID password. Enter your password to confirm the download.
- WhatsApp will download and install automatically. You’ll see the icon appear on your home screen once finished.
The WhatsApp download typically only takes a minute or two, depending on your internet connection speed. And remember, the app is completely free.
Downloading WhatsApp on an Android Phone
The process is very similar for Android devices:
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet.
- Search for “WhatsApp Messenger” and tap on the WhatsApp result published by WhatsApp Inc.
- Tap on the Install button.
- WhatsApp will begin downloading. Accept any permission popups that appear.
- Once finished, WhatsApp will install automatically. You’ll find the app icon in your apps menu.
Again, the entire process takes just a minute or two on most modern Android devices. And remember that WhatsApp is completely free to download even without a Google account.
Downloading WhatsApp on Windows Phone
For Windows Phone users, here are the steps to download WhatsApp:
- Open the Store app on your Windows Phone.
- Search for “WhatsApp” and select the official WhatsApp Messenger app.
- Tap on Install to begin the WhatsApp download.
- WhatsApp will download and install automatically. The icon will appear on your apps menu once finished.
Windows Phone users can enjoy the same fast, simple messaging offered by WhatsApp to users on other platforms. And again, WhatsApp is free to download and use.
Installing WhatsApp Desktop App
In addition to mobile devices, you can also use WhatsApp on your computer by installing the desktop app:
- Go to www.whatsapp.com/download and select WhatsApp Desktop App.
- Click Download for Mac or Windows PC. This will download the WhatsApp setup file.
- Open the file once finished and follow the setup instructions.
- The desktop app will sync to your mobile device automatically.
The desktop app provides the same features as the mobile experience. Scan the QR code during setup using your phone to easily sync your conversations.
Using WhatsApp Web
You can also access WhatsApp through any desktop web browser:
- Go to web.whatsapp.com.
- Your phone will prompt you to scan a QR code. Scan the code to link your account.
- WhatsApp will open in your web browser. Syncing happens automatically.
WhatsApp Web provides browser-based messaging without needing to download an app. Switch between your computer and phone seamlessly.
Registering an Account on WhatsApp
Once you’ve downloaded WhatsApp on your device, you’ll need to register an account:
- Provide your mobile phone number when prompted.
- You’ll receive a 6-digit verification code via SMS. Enter this code.
- Accept the Terms of Service.
- Allow WhatsApp access to your contacts (optional).
- Create a profile name the way you want to be seen by others.
- Upload a profile photo (optional).
And that’s it! Your WhatsApp account is ready to start messaging friends and family.
Key WhatsApp Features
Once set up, here are some of the top features to try on WhatsApp:
- Messages – Instantly message contacts 1:1 or groups.
- Voice and Video Calls – Make free VoIP calls over Wi-Fi.
- Statuses – Share text, photos, videos that disappear after 24 hours.
- Stickers – Send fun illustrated stickers to express emotions.
- Media Sharing – Share photos, videos, documents, and other media.
- End-to-End Encryption – Messages and calls are secured with end-to-end encryption.
Conclusion
Downloading and installing WhatsApp is quick and easy on any device. Simply follow our guide based on your operating system to get the app from the official app store. Register your phone number and accept the verification code to access free, secure messaging anywhere in the world. With over 2 billion users, WhatsApp is the most popular messaging platform globally.