WhatsApp for iPad has just launched on the App Store. For the first time ever, iPad users can get a native WhatsApp experience on Apple’s tablet. Here are the details.

Meta, the owner of WhatsApp, has a history of not offering iPad versions of its social apps.

Instagram famously (infamously?) has never been available on iPad. Though supposedly that may change soon.

But first, Meta’s long streak of ignoring the iPad ends for one significant app: WhatsApp for iPad is finally here.

Strangely, the App Store release notes don’t mention the change at all. But WhatsApp version 25.16.81 was just released and does include the iPad build.

The iPad version takes advantage of the larger screen real estate to enable a two-column layout with your threads on the left side and your current conversation on the right.

It also supports proper multitasking features like Split View, Slide Over, and Picture in Picture, enabling you to keep WhatsApp close at hand while working in other iPadOS apps.

WhatsApp’s absence from the iPad never made any sense before, and arguably is an even better fit for the platform than Instagram will be (though I very much want Instagram for iPad too).

It’s great to see Meta finally bring WhatsApp to iPadOS, and I hope it’s just the first of multiple iPad app announcements coming from the company this year.

Are you excited to use WhatsApp for iPad? Let us know in the comments.

• Apple Pencil Pro (now only $99, down from $129)
• 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging
• tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag for protection and style
• Baseus 10ft USB-C cable for extended reach
• Anker Docking Station USB-C with Ethernet, HDMI, SD, more