WhatsApp for Android is beta testing split view on tablets

2 min readUpdated May 20, 2025Mar 7, 20235:23 AM

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The tablet version of WhatsApp now has access to a split view thanks to a new update that was just released. The update was made available for the Android beta app on the Play Store for those fortunate enough to make it into the beta program.

News of this update was reported by Wabetainfo which found that this change took place with the beta Android WhatsApp app, version 2.22.21.6. This newest change builds upon the WhatsApp version released in September 2022, which was compatible with tablets but not optimized for use on larger screens.

This new feature is a game-changer for users because it optimizes the interface for tablets, it provides a better experience on a larger screen, and users can now view and use two different sections of the app simultaneously side by side on their tablet screen, as seen on the below screenshot:

In the past, when users opened a chat on the tablet version of WhatsApp, the chat view would take up the entire screen. Users would then have to return to the chat list each time they wanted to switch to a different conversation. This new feature will allow users to switch between conversations without returning to the chat list since it will be consistently visible whenever a chat window is opened.

After installing the most recent update of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Play Store, users will have access to a redesigned user interface optimized for tablet use. However, if the new feature isn’t available to you after installing the latest beta, Wabetainfo states that there will be an upcoming update that will unlock this feature for even more users. Unfortunately, if you do not already have access to the beta version of WhatsApp, you will not be able to sign up at this time as the beta program is almost always full.

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Questions & Answers

Which WhatsApp version introduced the split view feature for Android tablets?

The split view feature was introduced with the beta Android WhatsApp app, version 2.22.21.6. This update builds on the previous tablet-compatible version released in September 2022, which was not optimised for larger screens.

What is the main benefit of the new split view for tablet users?

The main benefit is the ability to view and use two different sections of the app simultaneously side by side. Users can now switch between conversations without returning to the main chat list, as it remains consistently visible.

Can all Android tablet users access this new split view feature immediately?

No, only those in the Android beta program who have installed the latest update can access it. If the feature isn't available after updating, an upcoming update is expected to unlock it for more users.

Is it possible for new users to join the WhatsApp Android beta program to get this feature?

Unfortunately, it is not possible for new users to sign up for the beta program at this time. The beta program is almost always full, meaning new registrations are currently closed.

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