Run WhatsApp on Linux with just 6 simple steps!

Linux systems are the best options for those who want to an easy to use an operating system that takes up less space than others, while at the same time loads faster. Many applications are compatible with the system, but is it possible to run Android apps on such systems.

But unlike on other operating systems, you need to take additional steps to begin your usage of the apps. Especially if you want to run WhatsApp, you need to follow these 8 simple steps.

Users must note that unlike on Windows you can't directly run emulators on your system. Firstly, you need to install virtual machines and then run them. Here, we are going to help you install Genymotion Android emulators on your Linux system.

Step 1
Head over to Oracle's VirtualBox home page and get the installer. This software is similar to VMware or any other virtual machines.

Step 2
Next, go to the Genymotion home page and download the installer. You will also be required to create an account for further use during the app usage.

Step 3
Once both the apps have been installed, you need to Genymotion and log in with the credentials you created.

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Step 4
Once logged in, you will be prompted to create a virtual device from the list of devices provided. You can search for the device you have from the list and install the virtual device. Once the device has been created, you will see that the device is ready to be used.

Step 5
Click on the 'Play' button and you will notice an emulator that boots up the Android phone of your choice.

Step 6
Now to install WhatsApp, you can either download the APK file from the website and install it directly from your system. You will be prompted that the file is from 'Unknown sources', but once you change the settings and allow the installation, you will find that the app has been installed successfully onto the virtual device.

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The only drawback of this system is that you will have to store all your contacts manually into the virtual device and then be able to run the app.

In order to get things running quickly, you will be required to download the Google Apps package that is compatible with the chosen device. The software version can be found in the list of devices.

Step 1
Verify the Android version running on the device that you've selected and save it all in a ZIP file.

Step 2
Drag the ZIP file into the emulator and if any warnings do pop-up on screen, you can click on 'OK' and proceed with the installation. Logging into your Google accounts, you can now also directly install the apps and also gain access to your contacts.