Meta has officially pulled the plug on WhatsApp’s native Windows application. Starting today, users will be redirected to a web-based version of the app that wraps around the WhatsApp Web interface.

Why it matters:

The native app offered better speed, integration with Windows notifications, and smoother performance. In contrast, the web-based version feels clunky, consumes more RAM, and lacks the polish of a desktop-native experience.

What to expect:

  • Slower loading and responsiveness

  • Increased CPU/RAM usage

  • Potential bugs with offline usage

Meta claims this is a move toward simplifying codebases and improving cross-platform updates. But for power users, especially those who rely on WhatsApp for business, it’s a major step backward.