Facebook's WhatsApp messaging application now has its own desktop version that is aimed at business users running at least Windows 8 and the Mac OS 10.9 versions.
WhatsApp already dropped their subscription fees several months ago in attempts to gain more users. While users can already access their accounts through the web client, the social network giant is now allowing users to download a desktop version for easier access on their computers.
Previously, the web version only allowed users to view their accounts if their smartphones were connected to. Now, the desktop version will give full control to the user.
WhatsApp said that users will be able to synch their smartphones with the desktop version in order to gather all of the messages and conversations stored in their mobile device, CIO Today reported. They can scan their QR codes through their phone's camera.
Once the desktop version is installed, users can then setup desktop notifications. A message could pop up in the background of their desktop or laptop computer which will be less likely to be missed compared to a silent vibration on the phone.
Facebook's WhatsApp already has more than a billion monthly users. The messaging app can then be used by business owners who want to communicate with their employees and customers easily, Forbes reported.
Office setups would most likely benefit from the new desktop version. Employees and workers can just install the software and use it to send messages to their team leaders, superiors, fellow officemates and more.
Facebook already has their Facebook at Work for businesses, but it can be a hassle to setup as it is separate from the larger public FB network. Employers would have to create their own FB network which can take time and cost money for the IT department.
WhatsApp can be easily installed and used without any special needs. It also has end-to-end encryption which means it would be harder for hackers to conduct corporate espionage on companies using the app as their main communication tool
The WhatsApp desktop version can be downloaded through the company's main website. It can be used by both average consumers and business owners.