WhatsApp is discontinuing one of its desktop apps in October. This change affects Mac users who currently use the Electron-based version of the WhatsApp desktop application.
End of the road for WhatsApp’s Electron app on Mac
WhatsApp currently offers multiple options for desktop users to access their messaging service. However, a significant change is coming for Mac users. The company is set to discontinue its Electron-based app for Mac at the end of October, replacing it with a new Catalyst app.
The fan blog WABetaInfo reports that WhatsApp is already prompting users to switch to the new app. The Electron app, which is based on a development environment that allows for quick cross-platform deployment, is being phased out due to its limitations in system optimization and speed.
Why the switch to Catalyst?
WhatsApp has developed a native Mac app using Apple’s Catalyst software. This new app is designed to replace the older Electron version. The Catalyst app promises to be faster and more reliable, as it’s optimized specifically for the Mac operating system.
Users of the current Electron app will see a notice upon launching the application, informing them of the impending discontinuation. A countdown timer shows the remaining days until the app’s end of life – currently standing at 54 days.
However, WABetaInfo suggests that users might want to wait before switching. While the new Catalyst app boasts improved speed and reliability, it currently lacks some features present in the Electron version. For instance, the Community section of the messenger is not yet available in the Catalyst app.
It’s expected that WhatsApp will address these feature discrepancies in the coming weeks. Users have multiple options for accessing WhatsApp on desktop, including browser-based access and dedicated apps for Windows and Mac. The company’s move to discontinue the Electron app for Mac is part of its efforts to provide a more optimized and efficient user experience on the platform.