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by anoncow 4615 days ago
Whatsapp runs on tablets without a SIM card. After sms verification fails, whatsapp calls your number and provides a verification code. There is sometimes an issue with play store not allowing you to install whatsapp, but that is easily fixed by downloading the apk fron the official website.
1 comments

The fact that it isn't in the Play store is the problem, not the fact that it's not on my individual tablet.

Sideloading never "easily fix[es]" anything that needs to happen on hundreds of millions of mobile devices owned largely by nontechnical users.

Network effect, remember?

That is true. I think whatsapp is trying to avoid confusing SIM-less users , but in the bargain is missing out on potential users, who might want to use whatsapp on their tablet rather than their cellphone.