WhatsApp Web recently added its multi-device beta feature for all users. With the addition, this app can now be used on browsers via WhatsApp Web independently of the main phone app. This means that some new functionalities will be available to WhatsApp Web users. Just like using the Web client even if there is no connectivity on the phone. However, there are some things one needs to keep in mind ahead of using the new feature including key limitations. Here are five pointers to keep in mind.
No connectivity on the main device needed
WhatsApp Web Multi-Device feature allows one to use the app on four other devices without connectivity to their main phone. This means one can use WhatsApp Web now even if the main phone loses connectivity, shuts down, or simply cannot connect to WhatsApp for some other reason.
Connect up to four devices
WhatsApp Web’s Multi-Device feature will also let you connect up to four more devices. However, note that if you connect multiple browsers on the same device, they will count as multiple entries. This means that if you connect this application’s Web via four different browsers on one laptop, you will have already crossed the limit and will not be able to add another device or browser.
Android and iOS difference
While the Multi-Device feature comes to both Android and iOS users, the functionalities are a little different. For instance, linking with an Android device lets one delete messages and threads from the Web portal, but with an iOS device, one will not be able to do the same.
No calls supported in WhatsApp Web
WhatsApp calls, both voice and video calls, are not yet supported by the multi-device feature and will have to be made or taken from the main device only.
Whatsapp is still a beta feature
This application Web’s multi-device feature is still in beta and may still have a few bugs or inconsistencies. This also includes support for tablets and other phones via browsers, where the experience continues to be unpolished. For now, WhatsApp Web’s multi-device feature is best experienced on laptops and desktops.
How to join multi-device beat in WhatsApp Web
- Join multi-device beta by going to WhatsApp and then Settings > Linked Devices > Multi-Device Beta.
- Once done, go back to the Linked devices screen and then tap the Link a Device button to link a new device.
- One will now be required to scan a QR code available on the secondary device to link it with your WhatsApp account.
After linking, the app will allow them to send and receive messages using the secondary device. One will also be able to see their previous messages from the secondary device, though the messages that are deleted from the primary device will not be visible on the secondary one. Messages that one deletes from the secondary device will also not be visible on their phone. However, this feature doesn’t work with an iPhone.
