WhatsApp, Meta's ubiquitous messaging platform with over two billion users globally, has announced that users can now create accounts directly from their iPad devices — a long-requested capability that eliminates the previous requirement to first set up WhatsApp on a smartphone. The update arrives after the company launched WhatsApp for iPad last year.

In a blog update published on Wednesday, WhatsApp described the new development as part of its broader effort to make the platform work seamlessly across devices and integrate more effectively with other applications.

"WhatsApp should work wherever you do. That's why we've been working with partners to make it fit seamlessly with the other apps you use and across your devices – so that WhatsApp can keep up with how you actually live," the company said in the post.

WhatsApp noted that the update responds to persistent user requests for the ability to sign up directly on iPad without needing a phone, following the platform's initial launch on iPad in 2025.

"One of the biggest things we've heard from people is wanting to create a WhatsApp account directly on their iPad, without needing to link to their phone," the company said.

Previously, users had to log into their accounts on a smartphone before accessing WhatsApp on iPad, linking the two via a one-time password or QR code scan. The latest update removes that prerequisite, positioning WhatsApp as a more viable standalone messaging option on tablets alongside competitors like Apple's iMessage and Telegram, both of which have long offered tablet-native experiences.

"Now you can. Register for WhatsApp directly on the iPad app, set up your account, and you're in," the company confirmed.

However, a phone number is still required to complete the initial setup. According to a conversation between TechCrunch and the company, users need a phone number and a device capable of receiving a one-time passcode to register. Once verification is complete, the app functions as a standalone account on the iPad rather than a companion device linked to a primary phone, as was previously the case.

The Meta-owned platform also rolled out several additional updates. Users can now share songs from Apple Music or Spotify directly to WhatsApp Status, a feature designed to let users express themselves and personalize their status updates.

WhatsApp has also introduced the ability to annotate and highlight PDFs without downloading them first. This capability is available on both web and desktop versions of the platform, broadening WhatsApp's utility for professional and educational document workflows where it increasingly competes with dedicated collaboration tools.

For vehicle owners, WhatsApp has expanded its in-car accessibility. The company has improved its integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — systems that run on a smartphone and wirelessly interface with a vehicle's infotainment setup. Previously, WhatsApp on CarPlay was limited to composing messages and placing calls. With the new update, users can also hear and reply to incoming messages, view call history, and access favorite contacts — an enhancement that aligns with the broader industry push toward deeper messaging app integration in connected vehicles, where hands-free communication is a growing safety and convenience priority.

These updates follow the platform's recent launch of usernames, a feature enabling users to share their profiles without disclosing their phone numbers. WhatsApp has also begun allowing users to reserve their usernames.

In late May, Meta introduced a subscription plan for the messaging app, unlocking premium features including profile customization, super reactions, story insights, and additional offerings. Taken together, these updates reflect WhatsApp's accelerating transformation from a phone-tethered messaging app into a multi-platform communication ecosystem, as Meta seeks to deepen user engagement and open new revenue streams across its largest property.