In July, WhatsApp had begun testing the multi-device support feature under the beta program.
Now, the popular instant messaging platform has officially started rolling out the much-awaited multi-device support feature in the most recent update of WhatsApp on both Android and iOS versions, reports GSMArena.
For those unaware, the multi-device support feature allows you to use WhatsApp on your phone and up to four other non-phone devices simultaneously. These devices can be WhatsApp Web, Desktop, and Portal.
Previously, WhatsApp linked to the smartphone was the primary device for connectivity to continue on other devices. Also, the primary smartphone is required to be connected to the internet before using it on the web version of the secondary device.
With the multi-device support feature, WhatsApp users will be able to send and receive messages on secondary devices without the need to keep their primary phone connected. It will also help you stay connected to WhatsApp if your primary phone runs out of charge.
Additionally, it will continue to have the same level of privacy and security through end-to-end encryption, which means all your personal data, messages, and calls will remain private.
However, the feature has a few drawbacks; for example, the linked devices will get logged out automatically if the primary device remains disconnected for up to 14 days. Also, it won’t allow you to delete conversations or messages from a linked device in the iOS version of the app.
Moreover, iOS users cannot link a tablet or secondary smartphone to the primary device, as only their primary smartphone can be linked to the laptop.
For Android users, they can link their devices to secondary smartphones. Additionally, the multi-device feature won’t support devices that are using an older version of WhatsApp.
Furthermore, iOS users cannot link a tablet or secondary smartphone to the primary device, as only their primary smartphone can be linked to the laptop.
Enable Multi-device feature on WhatsApp
For Android users, they can link their devices to secondary smartphones. Additionally, the multi-device feature won’t support devices that are using an older version of WhatsApp.
The multi-device support feature is still in the beta stage. To enable this feature on your smartphone, you need to follow the steps below to join the Multi-Device Beta:
- Go to Settings> Linked Devices> Multi-Device Beta.
- Then, go back to the ‘Linked Devices’ screen, and then tap the Link a Device button to link a new device.
- Next, tap on the “Join Beta” button and click “Continue.” Once done, scan the QR code on the secondary device to link to your WhatsApp account.
