WhatsApp has been working on multi-device support for its platform for quite some time. We have seen reports about its development that date back to 2019. However, the wait for multi-device support on WhatsApp has finally come to an end as the company has started rolling out the feature to a limited number of beta testers today. So, it won’t be long before the messaging giant rolls out multi-device support to the public.
The multi-device support on WhatsApp allows users to link up to four additional, non-phone devices to their accounts to access chats, voice, and video calls on WhatsApp Web/ Desktop without their primary smartphone connected to the internet. So, once the feature is enabled, you will be able to use WhatsApp on individual devices, even when your phone is not connected to the internet or is switched off.
So, the new architecture for WhatsApp’s multi-device support uses a client-fanout approach. In this process, the WhatsApp client sending a message encrypts it N number of times to N number of different devices that are stored in the sender’s and receiver’s device list. Each message is individually encrypted. This ensures a secure messaging experience via WhatsApp on any compatible device without requiring a smartphone.
As for availability, the multi-device support for WhatsApp is initially available to only a limited number of beta testers. So, if you are enrolled in WhatsApp’s beta program – be it one Android and iOS – and are lucky enough to access the feature, you will see a new “Multi-device beta” option under WhatsApp Web or Linked devices settings page. Image Courtesy: WABetaInfo
