WhatsApp Introduces Multi-Device Support
WhatsApp has started rolling out its long-awaited multi-device feature. The feature lets users access WhatsApp on more than one device at the same time.
WhatsApp previously tested this feature through a closed beta program. However, the company has now started making it available to users.
According to WhatsApp, the feature required major infrastructure changes. The company also redesigned parts of its system to support multi-device access. At the same time, WhatsApp says it continues to protect user privacy.
How WhatsApp Multi-Device Support Works
Previously, users could access App Web even when their phone had limited connectivity. However, the phone still played an important role in the connection.
The new update provides a more independent multi-device experience. Users can access WhatsApp on linked devices without keeping their phone connected to the internet.
This feature can help in several situations. For example, you can continue using App on your laptop when your phone battery is dead.
It can also help when your phone has a weak internet connection. If your computer has a stable network, you can continue using WhatsApp on that device.
WhatsApp’s Development of the Multi-Device Feature
App has worked on multi-device support since July 2019. The company developed new technologies to support the feature.
These technologies help maintain end-to-end encryption across devices. They also synchronize important account information.
This information includes contact names and message history. It also includes starred messages and other chat details.
App also suIt pports voice and video calls across multiple devices. The company says these calls use end-to-end encryption.
The platform can also sync information about archived and starred chats. states that synchronized data remains protected with end-to-end encryption.
Security and Privacy
App updated its security whitepaper to explain multi-device compatibility. The company says it maintains the same level of encryption across connected devices.
Users can also manage their connected devices. They can check which devices have access to their account.
Users can remove a connected device whenever necessary. This gives users greater control over their accounts.
Connecting a New Device
Users can connect companion devices through a simple process. They need to scan a QR code using their phone.
The process works similarly to connecting Web or the desktop application. WhatsApp may also request biometric authentication before completing the connection.
Users can review their connected devices at any time. They can also log out from individual devices when needed.
WhatsApp Multi-Device Beta Testing
WhatsApp initially tested multi-device support with a limited group of users. The company later expanded access through its beta testing program.
WhatsApp also planned to offer opt-in beta access to more stable-version users. Users could access this option through the Linked Devices section.
This approach allows WhatsApp to test the feature with more users. It also helps the company identify potential issues before a wider rollout.
How WhatsApp Compares With Other Messaging Apps
Apple’s iMessage remains closely connected to Apple’s device ecosystem. Its multi-device experience therefore differs from approach
Telegram supports multiple devices and offers cloud-based chats. However, secret chats do not provide the same cross-device synchronization.
Signal also supports desktop access and multiple linked devices. However, users still need a phone for certain messaging functions.
WhatsApp’s multi-device approach focuses on independent access across linked devices. It also aims to maintain end-to-end encryption across the experience.
