WhatsApp just launched on the web with a desktop version available to Android, Windows Phone, and BlackBerry users. This web version is actually a mirror of the WhatsApp app on the phone, which makes it necessary to have an active phone connection.
How to access the new version of WhatsApp
To get started, you will need a QR code to access the app on your computer. You will also need the current version of WhatsApp already installed on your smartphone. Yesterday the app’s blog announced the following message: “Today, for the first time, millions of you will have the ability to use it on your web browser. Our web client is simply an extension of your phone: the web browser mirrors conversations and messages from your mobile device — this means all of your messages still live on your phone.”
WhatsApp’s desktop version is not currently available to iOS users thanks to platform limitations.
A temporary ban affects third-party users
In other related news, the messenger service is temporarily banning client WhatsAppMD and other third party apps like WhatsApp Plus over potential safety issues. In the Frequently Asked Questions section, WhatsApp goes more into detail regarding the issue. It is explained that WhatsApp Plus was not created by or authorized by the company. There is no relationship or support from the original app either.
The post also added that WhatsApp Plus contains source code that cannot be guaranteed to be safe. Private knowledge is also apparently being passed to third parties without users’ knowledge or consent. They recommend users uninstall third-party applications and install the authorized version instead.
Users of third-party apps received messages from the messaging service stating they are banned from the service for violating the terms of service. Fortunately, the bans are only temporary and last 24 hours. There is even a countdown that displays the amount of time left on the ban.
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