How to use WhatsApp on your Chromebook

WhatsApp has become a necessity for many of us. Because of this, it is among the top 10 most popular apps for Android and iOS.

The service is not just limited to smartphones. You can use it in different ways on your PC. And Chromebooks are no different as you can conveniently use WhatsApp on your Chromebook via either the web version or the app.

So let’s look at two different ways to use WhatsApp on your Chromebook.

How to use WhatsApp on your Chromebook

The web version is useful if you don’t want to permanently install WhatsApp on your Chromebook. However, if you want to use WhatsApp natively with full functionality, it might be better to get the app.

Therefore, we recommend checking the two options and choosing the one that you think is suitable according to your preferences and needs.

1. Using WhatsApp Web

The beauty of WhatsApp Web is that you can access it on any PC without having to install anything. You get all the text and voice messaging features in this web-based version. However, voice and video calls are not available at this time.

To use WhatsApp Web you just have to follow these simple steps:

1. Open Google Chrome on your Chromebook and go to web.whatsapp.com.

2. Open WhatsApp on your phone and tap Three points or the Tooth icon in the top right corner of your screen.
3. Go to Linked Devices in the drop-down menu and tap Link a device on the following screen.
4. Next, a screen with a square camera will appear on your phone. Point it at the QR code displayed on WhatsApp Web on your Chromebook and it will sign you right in.

That’s it. You are now signed into your WhatsApp account on your Chromebook. You can use the messaging features through the web version. And to be able to make calls, use the method listed below.

If you want to use WhatsApp Web, here are some useful WhatsApp Web tips and tricks for you to check out. You can use WhatsApp Web even when your phone is offline.

2. With WhatsApp Android app

You can use this method to unlock the full functionality of WhatsApp on your Chromebook. All you have to do is install the app from the Google Play Store.

Before proceeding, it’s worth mentioning that the Google Play Store isn’t available on some older Chromebook models. It is also not currently available for Chrome OS Flex. Unfortunately, if you’re using one of these versions, you’ll have to settle for WhatsApp Web for now.

Here’s how to install the WhatsApp app on your Chromebook:

1. Click on that launcher in the bottom left corner of your screen and locate Play Store in the app drawer. You can also search for it if you can’t find it. Alternatively, you can also go to play.google.com to launch the store.

2. Once opened, search for “WhatsApp” in the Play Store search bar.

3. Click on the WhatsApp app and press To install to continue with the installation.

Now the app should be installed on your Chromebook. You can find it in your Chromebook’s app drawer and start setting it up. Once set up, you get all the features of WhatsApp on your Chromebook that are available on smartphones.

Needless to say, you need the hardware capabilities on your computer to use the calling features. For example, your Chromebook should have a built-in camera or an external webcam if you want to make video calls.

If your Chromebook has the Play Store, here are some of the best Android apps to try on your Chromebook.

Enjoy using WhatsApp on your Chromebook

With the methods listed above, you can easily use WhatsApp on your Chromebook. Depending on your preferences and requirements, you have two different options to choose from.

If you are ok with the limited functionality and don’t want to install an app, WhatsApp Web is a great solution for you. However, if you need the full features of WhatsApp then you must opt ​​for the Android app which is available on the Play Store.

If you’re new to Chromebooks, you should learn all about the operating system that powers it under the hood.