You will soon be able to access WhatsApp on your iPad without needing to use your iPhone.
Companion mode remains. Primary mode is here. WhatsApp on iPad has just become significantly more practical.
If you've ever accessed WhatsApp on your iPad, you're likely aware of its constraints. You cannot set it up without a primary device, share live location, or utilize the broadcast lists feature.
This is finally changing. The newest update from WhatsApp grants iPad users a long-awaited upgrade. Instead of functioning merely as an extension of your iPhone, it will soon serve as your primary device.
So, what exactly has changed?
With the rollout of WhatsApp for iPad version 26.25.74, users will soon have the option to designate their iPad as a primary device rather than a companion device (as noted by WABetaInfo).
Once you receive the update, you'll be able to register your account directly on your iPad using either your phone number or an existing passkey, similar to setting up WhatsApp on a new smartphone.
After being set up as the primary device, the iPad will acquire all the features that were previously absent in companion mode: live location sharing, creation of broadcast lists, and interaction with businesses through Flows.
This seems like an enhancement that will improve the daily experience for iPad users who depend on it for their workflows. There’s no need for an iPhone to authorize the setup, and you won’t face automatic logouts after 14 days of inactivity.
Does this impact companion mode for current iPad users?
No. Companion mode will remain unchanged; WhatsApp is not compelling anyone to switch. When initializing WhatsApp on a new iPad, you can decide whether to set it up as a companion or a primary device.
If you wish to keep your phone as the primary device while using the iPad as a secondary one, everything remains as it is. The new primary device option is especially beneficial if your phone is being repaired or if it stops working while you're out and you still need to remain reachable.
As mentioned earlier, this feature is being rolled out to users with the latest App Store update for WhatsApp on iPadOS, and it is expected to be widely available in the coming weeks.
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You will soon be able to access WhatsApp on your iPad without needing to use your iPhone.
iPad users can now operate WhatsApp as a standalone main device without requiring an iPhone.