WhatsApp’s desktop client built on the Electron framework has officially reached end of life, as reported by the WABetaInfo portal. For users attempting to launch the older Windows or macOS version, the app now presents guidance to uninstall it and install the updated client instead. This shift marks a notable milestone in how the popular messaging service distributes its desktop experience across platforms.
Electron emerged as the foundation for WhatsApp’s original PC experience back in 2016. In practical terms, the early desktop app was the web version of WhatsApp repackaged as a standalone program, which offered the convenience of running a familiar interface outside a browser. By 2022, WhatsApp released a new desktop application built from scratch, addressing performance issues and sluggish animations that plagued the Electron-based client. The modern app delivered faster startup times, smoother interactions, and a more cohesive feel with the rest of the ecosystem.
Nonetheless, the retirement of the Electron version sparked some discontent among users who relied on the specific features that were more prominent in the older client. Reports indicate that the current desktop app lacks certain business-oriented functionalities that users might have depended on in the past, such as quick replies tailored for business workflows and more extensive catalog management tools. This divergence underscores the ongoing tension between simplicity, performance, and the breadth of features in enterprise contexts.
Users who need access to the desktop experience can obtain the updated WhatsApp client directly from the Microsoft Store or by downloading it from the official WhatsApp website. The pathway ensures a consistent, supported experience across Windows and macOS, with ongoing updates, security improvements, and compatibility with the latest operating system features. For those assessing options, the modern client is designed to align with modern security practices and streamlined usability, while continuing to support essential messaging and media sharing needs.
Earlier announcements noted that WhatsApp would introduce capabilities such as temporarily pinning messages within chats, a feature that highlights the evolving approach to message management on desktop platforms. This improvement signals a broader trend toward enhancing user control and productivity within conversations, as the company iterates on features that complement both personal and business use cases.