Simple question - is it possible to install Whatsapp on my ancient laptop (Windows 7) so that I can type on a proper keyboard rather than the miniscule thing on my phone?
yes just download from here and follow the instructions, it will want to pair with your phone installation of whatsapp via QR code:
https://www.whatsapp.com/download
Thank you all. I'll wait until I've recovered from the stress of sorting out my first-ever smart phone (donated to me by a friend) before trying anything else complicated!
Just to point out that, as I understand it, it doesn't actually "work" on your laptop or tablet, it pairs with the phone. If the phone is lost or runs out of juice then the app won't work.
woofy's post reminds me that I tried on my W7 laptop to link to my wife's phone for exactly the reasons that diddly wants it. It worked a treat and was easy to set up but we've never used it since as my wife is quite happy using her phone directly.