How to Master WhatsApp Desktop

Pair with your cell

When you first open WhatsApp on Mac, you’ll see a QR code. Use the WhatsApp mobile app to scan this: On an iPhone, go to Settings > WhatsApp Web/Desktop > Scan QR Code and point the rear camera at your Mac’s screen.

Compose message

If you want to compose a new message to a WhatsApp contact, click the new message button at the top left. Select your chosen WhatsApp contact and enter a message in the text box as outlined above.

Change wallpaper

Click the downwards-pointing arrow, choose Settings, and this time click Chat Wallpaper. Move the pointer over the swatches on the left side to preview colors in the conversation on the right, and click one to select it.

Stay signed in

The WhatsApp welcome screen contains a checkbox marked “Keep me signed in.” Choose this to keep your cell phone or tablet connected to WhatsApp Desktop. Your mobile device must remain connected to the internet.

Manage profile

Click your profile image to view your profile details. Click your photo to remove it, or to take or upload another. Click the Edit icon (the pencil) next to Your Name to amend it, or the same icon next to About to change details.

Organize chats

In the view that shows chats on the left and the selected one on the right, Ctrl-click a chat in the list. You can archive it, or delete it altogether. Alternatively, select Pin Chat to keep that conversation at the top of the list.

Start chatting

Once you’re signed in to WhatsApp, you’ll see an interface very similar to the one on your device. Click on existing conversations on the left, and chat using the text box at the bottom right. Press Return to send.

Edit notifications

By default, the app will display a pop-up notification when someone sends you a message. To change this, click the downwards-pointing arrow, and choose Settings in the menu. Click Notifications to modify their setup.

Log out

Staying signed in means anyone with access to your user account on your Mac will be able to view and send messages. So for privacy, click the downwards-pointing arrow again when you’re done and choose “Log out.”