WhatsApp’s upcoming multi-device feature will enable users to message on several devices simultaneously, even without a continuous connection to their smartphone.
Facebook, which owns the messaging service, explained that users will be able to associate up to four devices to their WhatsApp account, enabling them to synchronise their data – such as contact names, archived chat, starred messages and more – across devices.
“You can now use WhatsApp on your phone and up to four other non-phone devices simultaneously, even if your phone battery is dead. Each companion device will connect to your WhatsApp independently while maintaining the same level of privacy and security through end-to-end encryption that people who use WhatsApp have come to expect,” it said on its engineering blog.
Users will also be able to make calls from associated devices.
Previously, the companion apps on the Web, macOS, Windows, and Portal required a persistent secure connection with the phone to mirror the contents. This led to disconnection if the phone lost signal, had a weak battery or closed the app.
Facebook assured it would implement additional safety measures to balance having accessibility from more devices.
Users would need to scan a QR code on their phone to link a new device and also provide biometric authentication. Users will also be shown a list of linked devices and be able to remotely logout.
Requiring verification to link a device also prevents “eavesdropping” by others who attempt to link their device to someone else’s account without permission.
To reduce the number of times users need to perform identity verifications, the company will later rollout the Automatic Device Verification feature, which enables users to automatically link devices.
The multi-device feature is currently being tested by Beta users, though Facebook said it would soon have a broad rollout after performance has been optimised.
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