If you use WhatsApp on a Windows computer, big changes are coming. The popular messaging platform is reportedly phasing out its native Windows app in favor of a web wrapper version. This shift, seen in the latest WhatsApp Beta for Windows, has stirred mixed feelings online. Some users see it as simplification, while others label it “enshittification” — a term coined to describe how online platforms become worse over time.
But what does this change really mean? Is WhatsApp improving or taking a step back? Let’s break it down in the simplest terms.
What Is a Web Wrapper?
A web wrapper is basically a desktop app that loads a website inside it. Instead of creating a full, standalone program for Windows, WhatsApp is now embedding its web interface in a basic window — like what you'd see in your browser.
So when you use the new WhatsApp for Windows, you're technically just using the WhatsApp Web site inside a desktop shell.
Why Is WhatsApp Making This Change?
There are a few big reasons why WhatsApp may prefer a web wrapper over a native app:
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Easier to update and maintain: By using the same codebase as WhatsApp Web, developers don’t need to maintain separate apps for Windows, macOS, and web browsers.
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Faster feature rollout: New features can be added once and work everywhere.
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Consistency across devices: The app looks and behaves the same, no matter what system you’re using.
These benefits sound good — especially for WhatsApp engineers — but users may notice some trade-offs.
Pros and Cons of WhatsApp’s Web Wrapper App
Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages for everyday users.
✅ Pros
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Lighter install size
Web wrappers use fewer resources and take up less space on your PC. -
Unified experience
What you see on WhatsApp Web is now what you get on the desktop. -
Quicker updates
Since it’s web-based, improvements and fixes arrive sooner.
❌ Cons
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Slower performance
Native apps are usually faster and smoother. A web wrapper may feel laggy. -
Fewer system features
Native Windows features like better notifications or offline access may not work as well. -
Reliance on the internet
If your connection is slow or cuts off, the web-based app might not work smoothly.
Is This “Enshittification”?
The term “enshittification” was coined by author Cory Doctorow. It describes how tech platforms often become worse over time due to business decisions that put profit or simplicity over user experience. (Read more about it here.)
Some users argue that switching to a web wrapper is a step backward. They believe it’s less reliable, slower, and stripped of key features. Others see it as necessary simplification, especially for cross-platform support.
In the end, whether this is enshittification or smart streamlining depends on how well the new app performs in real use.
What Will Happen to the Current WhatsApp Desktop App?
As of now, the full native app is still available on the Microsoft Store. But with the beta version already using a web wrapper, it seems likely that WhatsApp will eventually phase out the old native app completely.
If you’re already using the native version, you may be asked to update to the new version soon.
What Should You Do as a WhatsApp User?
If you’re a Windows user who depends on WhatsApp Desktop, here’s what you can do:
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Try the beta version
Head over to the Microsoft Store and search for WhatsApp Beta to see what the new experience feels like. -
Stay updated
Watch for announcements from WhatsApp’s official blog or Meta Newsroom. -
Give feedback
Beta versions are made for testing. If you notice bugs or poor performance, let WhatsApp know so they can fix it.
Will macOS Users See the Same Change?
Right now, this update only applies to Windows users, but it’s possible that macOS users will see a similar shift in the future. Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is clearly moving toward web-based platforms across many of its services.
This move helps them cut costs and speed up development, but how users respond will ultimately shape whether the change sticks.
Alternatives If You’re Not Happy
If the new WhatsApp web wrapper app doesn’t work well for you, consider these options:
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Use WhatsApp Web in your browser
Just go to web.whatsapp.com and log in. It offers nearly the same experience as the wrapper. -
Use your phone for most features
The mobile app is still the fastest, most complete version. -
Try third-party apps (with caution)
Some tools like Franz or Rambox let you use multiple messaging services in one place — including WhatsApp. But use these at your own risk, as they are not officially supported by Meta.
Final Thoughts
The switch to a WhatsApp web wrapper may seem small, but it signals a bigger trend in how companies are developing software. Apps are becoming more unified, cross-platform, and web-first — whether users like it or not.
If WhatsApp can make the web wrapper feel just as smooth and reliable as a native app, the move might actually be a smart one. But if it leads to more bugs, slowness, or missing features, expect louder complaints from long-time users.