WhatsApp launches a desktop app
Not content with phone and web-based platforms, WhatsApp has launched a new desktop version of its popular messaging service.
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The Facebook-owned app announced it is rolling out its desktop platform for Mac and Windows, so users need never miss a message again.
The desktop version of the app will support Mac OS 10.9 and above, as well as Windows 8 and above.
In a post on the firm's blog: 'We're introducing a desktop app so you have a new way to stay in touch anytime and anywhere - whether on your phone or computer at home or work.
'Like WhatsApp Web, our desktop app is simply an extension of your phone: the app mirrors conversations and messages from your mobile device.'
It promises to sync with the mobile app to update users, but the Mountain View-based firm has said it will bring more functionality.
'Because the app runs natively on your desktop, you'll have support for native desktop notifications, better keyboard shortcuts, and more,' WhatsApp explained.
'Just like WhatsApp Web, the new desktop app lets you message with friends and family while your phone stays in your pocket.'
Users can download the desktop version directly from WhatsApp's website, and have to scan a QR code from their phone, by searching for 'WhatsApp Web' menu under settings.
WhatsApp recently rolled out end-to-end encryption across the messaging platform for users in order to keep their conversations secure.
The recent update, which users would have seen pop up on in their conversations, means all phone calls, texts, and even media files are visible only to people included in the thread.
According a blog post last month, end-to-end encryption will lock out cybercriminals, hackers, 'oppressive regimes,' and even WhatsApp officials to keep your data private.
Messages on the Facebook-owned service will only be visible to the person who has sent them, and the individuals on the receiving end.
It works by using a 'lock' to secure messages between individuals or in a group chat. This lock is paired with a distinct 'key,' which only the sender and the recipients will have.
Each message in the conversation will have its own unique lock and key, the website explains and the exchanges will occur automatically.
Users won't have to turn on a particular setting to secure their messages – with the latest version of the app, end-to-end encryption will be an automatic feature.
'We live in a world where more of our data is digitized than ever before,' the blog post explains.
Credit: Daily Mail
