WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a cross-platform messaging application that enables users to send text messages, voice messages, images, videos, documents, and other media over an internet connection. On the web version (WhatsApp Web), users can synchronize their mobile account to a desktop browser or a dedicated Windows application, allowing them to continue conversations from a larger screen without needing to pick up their phone. The service is free to use and relies on end-to-end encryption by default, meaning that only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no third party—including WhatsApp itself—can access the content. The core functionality revolves around real-time communication. Users can create individual chats or group conversations with up to 1024 participants. Within these chats, they can send text with formatting options (bold, italic, strikethrough, monospace), react to messages with emojis, reply to specific messages inline, and forward content. Voice messages can be recorded and sent with a simple hold-to-record gesture, supporting long-form audio clips. For video and voice calling, the Windows desktop client offers high-quality one-on-one and group calls, including screen sharing capabilities, which are particularly useful for remote collaboration, presentations, or troubleshooting. File sharing is another major component. WhatsApp supports sending documents such as PDFs, spreadsheets, slideshows, and compressed folders, with a file size limit of 2 GB per file. Media files like photos and videos can be sent in their original quality or compressed to save bandwidth. Users can also share location in real time, create polls within groups, and schedule messages for later delivery. The platform includes a “Status” feature similar to stories on other social networ