Long awaited by users, WhatsApp’s multi-device feature is released in public beta. It can be activated easily and gives the possibility to use the messaging on several devices at the same time, without depending on the smartphone.
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Mentioned several times in our columns, multi-device mode is finally making a place for itself on WhatsApp and it’s a small revolution. The functionality is long awaited by users and offers the possibility of connecting several devices to the same account, without having to keep their smartphone connected. Until now, the famous messaging system was very dependent on the telephone and its cellular or Wifi connection to function. The device is indeed the link with other versions, including web or desktop applications.
The company Meta, parent company of the social network Facebook, has finally resolved to develop its messaging. In June, Mark Zuckerberg announced that WhatsApp teams had “Solved this problem” who “Was a major technical challenge”. To no longer depend on mobile, messaging had to review its operation as Facebook had entrusted it during the summer.
After a beta test period, the feature is available to all users in the form of a public beta. To access it, you will need to use the latest stable version of the messaging system and go to settings. Here are the steps to follow to use the multi-device:
- Open the WhatsApp application and go to the menu located at the top right of the screen
- Select Connected devices. From this page, you can connect a device and manage the devices already connected to your account.
- Click on Multi-device beta to join the beta
- You can now access the multi-device function
A feature still in the testing phase
Still in beta, the functionality is not yet fully functional and bugs may appear. WhatsApp specifies, for example, that it is not possible to delete or delete chats on additional devices if your main device is an iPhone. In addition, it is not possible to send messages or call a person using a “Very old version of WhatsApp” on his phone. Development teams also alert to the fact that “Performance and quality may be reduced”. Finally, it is not yet possible to use a tablet and therefore to take advantage of multi-devices on a tool like the iPad.
The messaging reminds you that it is possible to leave the beta “At any time”. To connect a new device (up to four additional devices in addition to the main phone), you will always have to go through your smartphone and scan a QR code. However, it will no longer be necessary to leave your phone connected.
On the security side, additional devices will be disconnected if you do not use your phone for more than 14 days. Note also that it is not possible to connect on a second phone, but this limit should soon be lifted.
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