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| WhatsApp for Windows Turns into a Web Wrapper — Bad News for Low-End PCs. |
Meta is making a big change that might not sit well with all WhatsApp users on Windows. The company has decided to replace the fully native WhatsApp app for Windows with a lighter, web-based version that runs inside a desktop wrapper.
This shift was spotted in the latest beta release of the app, where Meta stated that it had "updated the design and functionality" of WhatsApp for Windows. What this really means is that WhatsApp will now rely on the website version, embedded using Microsoft Edge’s WebView2 technology.
Why the Change?
By switching to a web-based approach, Meta can maintain a single codebase across platforms, making development and updates easier. But that convenience comes with trade-offs — especially for users on lower-spec computers.
What’s the Catch?
Unlike the previous native version, the new app consumes more RAM, runs less efficiently, and doesn’t blend as seamlessly with the Windows 11 UI. This could lead to slower performance, particularly on older or weaker machines.
Ironically, Meta previously promoted native apps as being better for performance, stability, and collaboration features. Now, they seem to have backtracked from that stance.
New Features Still Coming
Despite the downgrade in performance, the new version does include some additional features. Users can now access Channels and find improved options in the Status and Communities sections.
If you’ve noticed WhatsApp behaving differently on your Windows PC — slower load times, a new look, or heavier RAM usage — it’s because you're now technically using the web version in disguise. For users with low-end hardware, this might not be great news.
Hopefully, Meta will continue to refine this experience or consider bringing back a truly native app in the future.