How to Download WhatsApp on iPad: The Complete 2025 Guide

With billions of users worldwide, WhatsApp has become the go-to messaging app for both personal and business communication. However, while the WhatsApp app is readily available for iPhone, Android phones, Mac, and Windows, many iPad users have long faced a frustrating problem: there is no dedicated WhatsApp app for iPad available on the App Store. If you're searching for how to download WhatsApp on iPad, you're not alone.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover all the methods to use WhatsApp on your iPad, including both official and alternative approaches. Whether you have an iPad Air, iPad Mini, or iPad Pro, this guide will help you get WhatsApp working smoothly on your device.

Part 1. Is There an Official WhatsApp App for iPad?

As of 2025, there is NO dedicated WhatsApp app for the iPad available on the App Store. If you search for WhatsApp Messenger on your iPad, you'll only see options to download the app for iPhone.

Part 2. Methods to Download and Use WhatsApp on iPad

Method 1: WhatsApp Web via Safari or Browser

This is the easiest, most secure, and official method for using WhatsApp on your iPad. You can follow the step-by-step guide below:

Step 1. Open Safari (or your preferred browser) on your iPad.
Step 2. Go to: WhatsApp web website. You may see a mobile page. Tap the "aA" icon in the address bar and select "Request Desktop Website."

Step 3. On your phone (where WhatsApp is installed): Open WhatsApp and go to Settings (iOS: gear icon, Android: three dots > Linked devices). Then, Tap Linked Devices > Link a Device. Scan the QR code displayed on your iPad's browser using your phone's camera.
Step 4. Done! Your WhatsApp chats will load on your iPad. You can now send/receive messages, view images/videos, and use WhatsApp just like on desktop.

Method 2: Using WhatsApp's Linked Devices Feature

Since 2023, WhatsApp has introduced the "Companion Mode" for linking up to four devices to your primary WhatsApp account. This means your iPad can function as an additional device even without your phone being online.

Step 1. Download WhatsApp from the iOS App Store on your iPad (you might need to change search settings to "iPhone Only"):
1). Open App Store > search WhatsApp Messenger.
2). Tap Filters and choose Supports: iPhone Only.
3). Download WhatsApp (it will appear as the iPhone version but works on iPad).

Step 2. Open WhatsApp on your iPad:
1). On the welcome screen, tap Link as Companion Device or Link a Device.
2). A QR code will be displayed.

Step 3. On your main phone (iPhone or Android):
1). Open WhatsApp, tap Settings > Linked Devices > Link a Device.
2). Use your phone's camera to scan the QR code shown on your iPad.

Step 4. Your chats will sync to your iPad. This allows you to use WhatsApp independently on your iPad even if your phone is offline for 14 days.

Part 3. How to Add WhatsApp Web to Your iPad Home Screen

If you want quick access to WhatsApp like a real app, you can add WhatsApp Web as a shortcut on your Home Screen. The following is the how-to:

Step 1. Open Safari and go to WhatsApp web.
Step 2. Once the page loads, tap the Share icon (a square with an arrow).
Step 3. Scroll down and select Add to Home Screen.

Step 4. Give it a name like "WhatsApp" and tap Add.

Now you'll see a WhatsApp icon on your iPad Home Screen. Tap it anytime to use WhatsApp!

Part 4. Limitations of Using WhatsApp on iPad

While WhatsApp Web and Companion Mode are great solutions, there are some limitations:

• No Voice or Video Calls: WhatsApp Web on iPad does not support calls, though WhatsApp is rolling this out on some platforms.
• Certain Features May Be Missing: Status updates, stickers, and media downloads may be limited compared to the mobile app.
• Requires a Primary Phone: You still need a phone to set up WhatsApp on your iPad.
• Notifications May Not Be as Reliable: WhatsApp Web does not always offer push notifications on iPad.

Bonus Tip. How to Transfer WhatsApp Messages Between iOS Devices

If you are wondering how to transfer WhatsApp message between your iOS devices in a simple way, TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer will help you. TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer is a well-established WhatsApp message managing tool with 4 main features. When you need to transfer WhatsApp data between iOS devices, back up your WhatsApp data to the computer, restore WhatsApp backup files to iOS devices, or just export WhatsApp backup files to the computer and preview it, TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer can help you out.

If you update to a new phone and need to transfer WhatsApp data from old phone to new phone, or just need to back up your WhatsApp data to computer for security reason, Download and try TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer.

Part 5. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I install WhatsApp directly on iPad from the App Store?

As of May 2025, there's no official WhatsApp for iPad app. You can only download the iPhone version through search filter tricks, but it's actually WhatsApp Web or Linked Devices feature that makes it usable.

Q2. Do I need my phone to use WhatsApp on iPad?

Yes. You need a phone to set up and link WhatsApp. With WhatsApp's Linked Devices feature, your phone doesn't need to be online all the time, but you must scan the QR code to connect.

Q3. Can I make calls through WhatsApp on iPad?

No. WhatsApp Web and Linked Devices currently do not support voice or video calls on iPad. For calls, use your phone.

Q4. Is it safe to use WhatsApp Web on iPad?

Yes, as long as you use the official WhatsApp web site and do not enter your credentials on third-party, unofficial sites or apps.

Q5. Will my messages sync in real-time?

Yes – chats, media, and group conversations all sync in real-time between your phone and iPad.

Part 6. Conclusion

While a dedicated WhatsApp iPad app is still missing as of 2025, modern WhatsApp features like Web and Linked Devices make it easy to download and use WhatsApp on your iPad. By following the official methods outlined above, you can chat, share media, and stay connected—all from your iPad's bigger screen.

Besides, if you need to transfer your WhatsApp data from your old iPhone to new iPhone, you can download and try using TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer to make it.