It’s been known for over a year that WhatsApp has been actively working on a feature that would allow the messaging app to run on multiple devices simultaneously. Finally, it looks like it will be ready for distribution for everyone soon, as Meta is already testing it with a small group.
Indeed, according to WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp (version 2.22.24.18) brings tests for new companion mode for smartphones. Users can now link another smartphone or even another tablet to their WhatsApp account via the new “Connect Device” option in the three-dot menu.
Adds companion mode to WhatsApp app
The new option seems pretty straightforward to work with. Instead of entering a number, Scan a QR code with your primary phone to log into your existing WhatsApp account. Once complete, all your chat history will be synced and you will be able to chat with your contacts on both phones. However, be aware that some features such as live location, stickers and even broadcasts may not be synced.
As with WhatsApp Web, companion mode is limited to four other devices, a total of five smartphones or tablets were allowed to be linked to a single account. WhatsApp is still testing this feature, so it’s unclear when it will roll out to all users in the stable version of the app.
Either way, WhatsApp is making steady progress towards its goal of allowing users to use the same account across all their devices. thus following in the footsteps of other messaging services like Telegram.
Note that in addition to the new friend mode, WhatsApp will also get other new features like the Community tab. Video call to 32 peoplebetween polls in chatas well as creating Groups of up to 1024 users. Soon it will even be possible to send a message to yourself.
