Tired of typing on a phone? Find out here how to open and use WhatsApp on the desktop in a browser or an app ⤓ on any laptop and computer — and even without a phone.
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How to Use WhatsApp on the Desktop
Time needed: 3 minutes
To open WhatsApp on the desktop with just a browser using WhatsApp Web:
- Install WhatsApp on your phone and register your phone number with it.
- Visit WhatsApp Web in your favored web browser on the desktop computer or laptop.
- Now open WhatsApp on the phone.
- Select the Settings gear (⚙️) or tap the menu button (⠸).
- Choose Linked Devices from the menu or sheet that has appeared.
- Tap Link a Device if visible to add another session.
- Point your phone to the screen to scan the QR code on the WhatsApp Web page.
Again: Click CLICK TO RELOAD QR CODE over the original QR code to generate a new one in place of the expired one.
Not again: Check Keep me signed in to save yourself the trouble of scanning the QR code next time. - Use WhatsApp in the browser.
Important: WhatsApp on the desktop uses your phone to send and receive messages. You cannot use WhatsApp on the desktop without having both your phone and the desktop computer connected to the internet.
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How to Use WhatsApp on Desktop Browsers and Apps: FAQ
Can I download a WhatsApp application?
Yes.
You can put web-based WhatsApp into its own application with
These applications offer native notifications on top of what you get from WhatsApp Web.
Can I use WhatsApp on the desktop without installing it on a phone?
Yes.
To use WhatsApp on your computer or laptop without it being connected to a phone:
- Install an Android emulator on your PC or Mac.
Examples: Popular emulators include Andy and BlueStacks. - Open Google Play store in the emulator.
- Download and install WhatsApp Messenger.
- Launch and use the WhatsApp app in the Android emulator.
Like a phone: Do connect WhatsApp on your PC or Mac with your mobile phone number just like you would when running it on a phone. You will receive a code by SMS text message that lets you connect WhatsApp on the computer with that number.
Mandatory: Using WhatsApp on the desktop independently from a phone is currently not possible. You need to be logged in to your account on the phone while using the web or a desktop app on a computer.
Can I make calls using WhatsApp on a computer?
No and yes.
The browser-based WhatsApp version lets you send text and voice messages but does not support calling itself.
Emulators: If you install WhatsApp in an Android emulator (see above), however, you can make and receive calls directly on the Windows, Mac, or Linux computer.
(Tested in a desktop browser; first published August 2018, last updated August 2026)