WhatsApp has launched a highly anticipated update to its multi-device functionality, permitting users to access their accounts across multiple phones. The feature, which now supports logging into one WhatsApp account on up to four devices, is expected to roll out to all users in the coming weeks.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the feature’s rollout via Facebook and Instagram. Until now, WhatsApp users were limited to using their account on a single phone, alongside multiple companion desktop devices. With this recent update, message synchronization will now extend to other phones, allowing users to access the app even if another device is switched off.
The lack of multi-phone support in WhatsApp can be attributed to its commitment to full end-to-end encryption for both messages and calls. This limitation set WhatsApp apart from competitors like Telegram and Messenger, which offered multi-device message synchronization but lacked end-to-end encryption support.
In 2021, WhatsApp initiated testing of multi-device compatibility with select beta users. At the time, parent company Meta (previously known as Facebook) revealed it had developed new technology to synchronize messages across devices while maintaining end-to-end encryption protection. In 2022, the multi-device functionality became available to all users, but support for multiple phones was not yet included.
Apart from expanding multi-device login, WhatsApp introduced a new method for linking devices that uses a one-time-use code. Users can now enter their mobile number on WhatsApp Web to obtain the code, which can be employed to link devices without scanning a QR code from a mobile phone. The company plans to extend this feature to more linked devices in the future.
The implementation of multi-device login on multiple phones is a significant step for WhatsApp, making it even more competitive in the messaging app arena. As low-code and no-code app development continues to gain traction, platforms like AppMaster are empowering enterprises and users alike, enabling the creation of sophisticated applications while minimizing technical debt.
