WhatsApp's iPad Expansion Could Redefine Seamless Messaging for Apple Users
Consider this: instead of responding to important work communications on an iPad as casually as you would when watching a movie on an Apple TV (without touching your phone), iPad users have been eagerly awaiting a native WhatsApp experience. The expected arrival of this feature in 2025 could mark a significant milestone. WhatsApp currently boasts around 2.7 billion monthly active users. While it doesn't dominate the messaging space, it is a major player, and the absence of a standalone iPad version has created a notable gap in the Apple ecosystem.
Rumors suggest that Meta is exploring the development of a standalone iPad version of WhatsApp, potentially integrating some features from iPadOS 18. Could this be a game changer for how Apple enthusiasts communicate? Let’s consider the possible implications.
The Role of WhatsApp on the iPad in 2025
1. Problem-free syncing with multiple devices
Currently, the iPad is only available via the latest version of WhatsApp Web, which isn't great. But when the new iPad app is released, there will be:
- All of your Apple devices utilize end-to-end encryption.
- Performance enhancements utilizing a UI designed for iPad, as well as offline messaging that avoids the disadvantages of using browser workarounds.
What also augurs well is the recently published 2024 Statista report, which also just issued, stated that 35% of employed professionals are using tablets for communication at work. This means that a separate WhatsApp app for the iPad would help facilitate productivity in everyday workflows, especially with the support of Apple Pencil for quick sketches and jotting down notes.
2. Improved Integration of iPad OS 18
According to reports, the next iPadOS version, version 18, supports sophisticated artificial intelligence integration with enhanced native functionality, enabling a WhatsApp application to utilize
- Siri dictation for message writing
- Focus Mode (putting aside unimportant communications)
- Split View multitasking (concurrent messaging and browsing)
There are also rumors that Meta and Apple are collaborating to enhance WhatsApp for Stage Manager on the iPad, aiming to support app-resume capability.
3. iMessage and Telegram are Competitors
Despite iMessage's dominance among Apple users in the United States, WhatsApp's global relevance makes it a contender. A 2025 Counterpoint Research report has concluded that 62% of global iPad users use third-party messaging apps.
Telegram already has a polished iPad experience that has prompted WhatsApp to develop one, and creating an iPad app could help win back users who are already switching to other messaging apps.
Challenges and Limitations
1. Privacy and Security
WhatsApp's banter is about end-to-end encryption; however, the sync between Apple devices leaves some questions:
- How will messages on an iPad sync?
- I am not clear if we want to use iCloud or Meta servers.
What impact do Apple's App Tracking Transparency (ATT) policies have on the communication of messages between devices?
2. Feature parity with mobile
In light of WhatsApp's history of filling in its features (like macOS apps) with absent features, e.g.:
- status reports
- live location sharing
- payment methods
A minimalist version of WhatsApp will likely disappoint iPad users seeking consistency in functionality levels.
The Future of WhatsApp on iPad
Market experts anticipate that Meta will release the WhatsApp iPad app in 2025, possibly along with new AI-powered chat features. Some of the potential upgrades are
- AI-driven responses (e.g., Google's Smart Reply)
- Video calling features based on iPad (spatial audio, Center Stage)
- A business tool that includes the WhatsApp Business API, designed for large businesses.
As its iPad Pro sales have increased 12% year-over-year, according to IDC, Meta has every reason to capitalize on this.
Final Thoughts: WhatsApp as New Connected Messaging for Apple Users
WhatsApp on iPad has the potential to disrupt Apple's ecosystem by unifying messaging capabilities across iPhones, Macs, and iPads. However, there are still challenges to address, including privacy concerns and the development of new features. WhatsApp will need to demonstrate a commitment to deep integration with iPadOS. For now, the introduction of WhatsApp on the iPad represents a significant shift in one of the most discussed technology experiences of 2025.
Currently, iPad users only have workarounds to access WhatsApp. However, rumors suggest that WhatsApp will soon be available as a native iPad application, offering a seamless experience across devices.