WhatsApp is one of the most popular texting apps in the world. Until recently, it was very difficult to use it on a computer. That has now changed. In this guide, we will cover how to install and use WhatsApp on your Windows device using built-in Windows apps and browser tools.
Content
- Install WhatsApp on Your Windows PC
- How to Link WhatsApp on Windows to Another Device
- What to do If Your Windows PC is Not Compatible With WhatsApp
Install WhatsApp on Your Windows PC
While WhatsApp app bundles are available on several third-party websites, for security purposes, you should always download it from the following Microsoft sources. This leads to two separate installation methods.
1. Using Microsoft Store
The easiest way to install WhatsApp on your Windows PC is to download and install it from the Microsoft Store. It won’t take long, and you can launch the app on your Windows device at any time.
Once the installation is complete, click Open to launch it. Next, you’ll find a familiar WhatsApp launch screen and even your customized notification sounds, just like they’re commonly seen on Android or iPhones.
2. Using Phone Link
The Phone Link app on your Windows PC offers another reliable way to access WhatsApp on your Android device. It should come preconfigured on Windows 11/10, but if it is not, you can download it here. Currently, iPhones do not support WhatsApp, but you can still download the app for using SMS.
How to Link WhatsApp on Windows to Another Device
Once the main app is installed, the next task is to link it to your original WhatsApp account. Consequently, you can connect Windows WhatsApp with your WhatsApp on your smartphone device using either of these methods.
The first method with the Microsoft Store works with both iPhone and Android. The second method with the Phone Link app currently supports WhatsApp on a limited number of Android devices only, but you can still use the Phone Link app for SMS, photos, and other activities.
1. WhatsApp Version Installed from Microsoft Store
Launch WhatsApp on Windows. Tap on Get Started to proceed. You will come across a setup screen where you can do the linking in two ways.
Click Link with phone number, which means correctly entering your country code and phone number.
Despite its simplicity, I usually don’t choose above method as my phone number and device change frequently. As a matter of fact, the below QR code trick is easier to use.
Launch WhatsApp on your phone. On Android, tap Menu followed by the three-dot icon. On iPhone, click Settings directly. Subsequently, on both phones, click Linked devices followed by Link a device.
Scan the QR code on the Windows PC. For this, WhatsApp needs to already have access to your phone camera, which you would have granted when you installed the app on your smartphone. Scan the QR code to log into your WhatsApp account.
The WhatsApp on your phone will display a Syncing. Keep app open status. The devices will now link together. You can link up to four devices to a WhatsApp account using this method.
After this, you can start using WhatsApp on the connected Windows PC. In fact, you can even turn off the Internet on your phone and still be able to send and receive messages on your Windows device, as well as make phone calls.
Did you know? You can message yourself on WhatsApp as shown in the screen above.
2. Phone Link App
Once you install Phone Link, it will further allow you to install WhatsApp on your Windows devices. For this, select your Android device to begin the linking process. Microsoft might ask you to enter your Windows PC sign-in credentials.
In the next step, it’s necessary to link your mobile device to your Microsoft account using a QR code. Alternatively, you can link directly on a phone browser by visiting the address: “aka.ms/linkpc.” Make sure to scan the code within 10 minutes to begin account syncing
In the next step, the QR code will generate a URL which will further require you to install the Link with Windows app on Google Play or App Store. Once it installs properly, click Continue to proceed.
On the next screen, you will need to enter a six-letter code, which will be visible on the Phone Link app on your Windows screen. You must enter this within three minutes, after which you have to sign in to your Microsoft account. Enter the email and password associated with your Windows device. After that, grant all the required permissions.
You should see a Device linking complete status on your phone once the syncing is finished. On the PC, you’re ready to use your phone and just need to click Continue to access phone features.
You should now be able to view the Phone Link app and all its messages history on your Windows PC device. Click Get started to begin.
For using WhatsApp with Phone Link on a Windows PC, you need to have a compatible Android device model listed on this guide. Currently, iPhones are not supported. Click Use a mobile app on my PC to begin.
Go to Apps -> All Apps and select “WhatsApp” from the list of apps in Phone Link. You have to provide notifications access to “Link to Windows” app on your smartphone.
The WhatsApp app on your phone should be clearly visible on your Windows computer. You can use it as you normally would on your phone.
However, unlike the WhatsApp available from the Microsoft Store, you cannot send WhatsApp messages through the Phone Link app when the internet is switched off on the paired phone.
Also read: schedule your WhatsApp messages using one of these methods.
What to do If Your Windows PC is Not Compatible With WhatsApp
You don’t always have to install WhatsApp on Windows. If your Windows device is not compatible with WhatsApp, you can still access it on the web. For sign-in, you’ll use a unique QR code for your browser and device. This method is quick and accurate, displaying all your WhatsApp chats in a browser window, which you can easily sign out from. It’s very useful for temporary access on a new Windows, Linux or Mac device.
WhatsApp is a very common and popular app worldwide. But if you’re not using it, don’t feel left out as you’re not alone. In fact, many people prefer WhatsApp alternatives as they’re better geared to protect your privacy.
All images are by Sayak Boral.
Sayak Boral –
Staff Writer
Sayak Boral is a technology writer with over eleven years of experience working in different industries including semiconductors, IoT, enterprise IT, telecommunications OSS/BSS, and network security. He has been writing for MakeTechEasier on a wide range of technical topics including Windows, Android, Internet, Hardware Guides, Browsers, Software Tools, and Product Reviews.
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