A free messaging and calling app from Meta with end-to-end encrypted chats, groups and video calls.
About WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a messaging and calling app owned by Meta that uses your phone number as your account. It supports one-to-one and group chats, voice and video calls, voice notes, photos, documents, status updates and communities, and the store listing describes use by over two billion people in more than 180 countries.
Personal messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted by default, and the app syncs to desktop apps for Windows and macOS as well as the web. It is free to download and use, with data charges from your carrier or Wi-Fi, and there are separate business tools for companies.
It suits anyone who wants a straightforward way to stay in touch with friends, family or small groups, especially where it is the default messaging service among contacts. The trade-off is that registration depends on a phone number, and the app is tied to Meta's ecosystem and its privacy policy. Google Play lists more than 10 billion downloads, and the iOS app has about 18.7 million ratings.
Turn on two-step verification in settings and review backup encryption for chat history. Your contacts must also use WhatsApp to message them there.
Version history
1 release tracked- iOS: Bug fixes and performance improvements
Frequently asked
Is WhatsApp free?
Yes, it is free for personal use. Data charges from your carrier may apply.
Does it need an account?
It needs a phone number to register. No separate username is required.
Which platforms does it run on?
Android, iOS, Windows and macOS, plus a web version.
Where does the download link go?
Directly to whatsapp.com or the official app store for your platform. PlanetSofts never rehosts installers or adds wrappers, and these links were last verified Oct 6, 2026.