Meta’s messaging platform WhatsApp has revealed that users can now create an account directly from their iPad devices. The update comes after the company launched WhatsApp for iPad last year.
According to an announcement on Wednesday via a blog update, the popular platform noted that the new development is part of its bid to make WhatsApp work seamlessly across devices and integrate better with other apps.
“WhatsApp should work wherever you do. That’s why we’ve been working with partners to make it fit seamlessly with the other apps you use and across your devices – so that WhatsApp can keep up with how you actually live,” it said in the blog post.
WhatsApp mentioned the update comes amid customers’ requests for the ability to sign up directly on iPad without needing a phone. This comes following the launch of the platform on iPad in 2025.
“One of the biggest things we’ve heard from people is wanting to create a WhatsApp account directly on their iPad, without needing to link to their phone,” it said.
Previously, users have always logged into their accounts on their smartphones before accessing their accounts on their iPad device. This means that users link their already logged-in interface on smartphones to their iPad through a one-time password or QR scan.
The latest update now allows users to register or sign up directly on their iPad.
“Now you can. Register for WhatsApp directly on the iPad app, set up your account, and you’re in,” the company said.
However, users still need their phone to complete the account setup on their iPad. In a reported conversation with the company by TechCrunch, it was revealed that users need a phone number and a device with the ability to receive the one-time passcode to register their account.
After this, the app will work as a standalone account on users’ iPad and won’t be linked to a primary phone as a companion device, as previous practices.
Also Read: WhatsApp to reserve high-profile usernames to curb impersonation scams.
More updates on WhatsApp
The Meta-owned platform also announced a number of updates. It noted that users can now share songs from Apple Music or Spotify directly to WhatsApp Status. It says the idea behind the feature is to allow users to express themselves and make their status more unique.
The platform also lets users annotate and highlight PDFs without downloading them first. It is noted that the new capability is available on the web and desktop.
For car owners, WhatsApp is bringing more accessibility.
According to the blog post, the company said it has improved its integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are apps that run on a smartphone and wirelessly communicate with a vehicle’s infotainment system.
Previously, WhatsApp was accessible in CarPlay, but users were limited to composing messages and placing calls. With the new update, users can also hear and reply to messages, view their call history, and access their favourite contacts.
The latest round of updates comes a few weeks after the company launched usernames on the platform, a feature that allows users to share their profiles without disclosing their phone number. And the platform has started allowing users to reserve their usernames.
Also in late May, Meta launched a subscription plan for the messaging app. The subscription unlocks special features such as profile customisation, super reactions, story insights, and more.
