It can be downloaded after the software update coming this week

Nov 21, 2013 06:18 GMT  ·  By

Nokia announced last month that it would bring Instagram to Windows Phone devices and WhatsApp Messenger application to Nokia Asha handsets.

Well, part of the promise was kept given the fact Instagram landed in Windows Phone Store only yesterday. The second part of Nokia's promise will become reality within the next few days as the Finnish company has just announced WhatsApp Messenger will soon be available for Asha 501.

Keep in mind that the application will only be available for download after the latest software update for the Nokia Asha 501 rolls out later this week.

As expected, the application will be available for free, and Asha 501 users can download it OTA (over the air) via 2G or Wi-Fi connection.

The application will automatically find and add contacts who are already using WhatsApp Messenger, so Nokia Asha 501 users will be able to take advantage of what the instant messaging app has to offer faster and easier.

According to Nokia, “with message notifications appearing on your Nokia Asha 501 when somebody gets in touch, using WhatsApp really does feel like using any other feature that was pre-installed on the phone, rather than a third-party app.

“You’ll also be able to see WhatsApp activity via Fastlane, the second home screen that acts as a shortcut to favourite apps and content, and features on all Asha Platform devices.”

It is also worth mentioning that while WhatsApp Messenger will soon be available for the Nokia Asha 501, the application has been confirmed to arrive pre-installed on the Nokia Asha 500, Asha 502 and Asha 503 Dual SIM when these handsets start selling later this year.

Nokia Asha 501 users should keep an eye out for the next major software update, which will enable them to use WhatsApp Messenger along with a number of new features and services.