The instant messaging app WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is reportedly introducing a new feature to its Android beta testers. According to WaBetaInfo, this feature enables WhatsApp users to add multiple accounts to the widely used messaging application.
Currently, individuals seeking to include a secondary account on their smartphone typically resort to installing a duplicated version of WhatsApp. However, this workaround is only functional on specific Android devices. The recently incorporated multi-account feature, found in the latest beta version, introduces an account switcher. This facilitates seamless transitioning between the primary account linked to the smartphone and other WhatsApp accounts.
According to the report, the multi-account feature is currently accessible to a limited group of beta testers who have updated to WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.17.8. It is expected to roll out to a broader user base in the following weeks.
Once activated, WhatsApp will display a small downward-pointing arrow icon beside the QR code within the settings menu. Subsequently, a card will emerge showcasing the primary account, accompanied by an “Add account” button. By tapping this button, users can incorporate an account registered on another device, and recent messages will synchronize with their phone.
The report also includes a screenshot of the feature, depicting the popup card that acts as an account switcher. This card will exhibit the phone number linked to the corresponding WhatsApp account. This functionality enables users to easily differentiate between accounts, along with their profile photo and username. The feature had been spotted during its development phase in June.
WhatsApp had previously introduced a “companion mode,” allowing users to set up an iPhone or Android smartphone as a secondary device, thereby enabling the use of a single account across multiple devices. However, users are presently limited to employing only one account on a single device. Certain Android devices, such as Samsung smartphones, permit the “cloning” of WhatsApp to incorporate a second account.
The multi-account feature, currently accessible to select beta testers, streamlines access to personal conversations and professional chats—assuming different accounts are in use—providing a convenient mechanism. Notifications and conversations will be presented separately, based on details from the feature tracker.
