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WhatsApp's working on a big improvement to multi-device support
Sync messages without your primary smartphone
Believe it or not, WhatsApp didn't support multiple devices before this summer, requiring your phone to be turned on and connected to the web at all times — even when using the web client to send messages. While that's no longer necessary, the app is still incapable of allowing you to message from more than one mobile device. If you've been feeling the limitations of "partner" devices over the last few months, there's finally a sign that true multi-support is coming to WhatsApp.
WhatsApp will soon start erasing deleted chat threads across all your devices
An end to unwanted conversations reappearing on desktop and web apps
WhatsApp finally added multi-device support earlier this summer, making it easier than ever to message your friends and family even if your phone isn't nearby. It's a massive improvement compared to previous iterations of the app, offering up to four companion devices to message from — although you're still limited to a single phone. Some bugs still need to be ironed out, including deleted chat threads not syncing correctly across platforms. WhatsApp is finally working on a fix, but it might be a little while before it's live.
Everything you need to know about WhatsApp's new multi-device support
Only desktop and web are supported, and a few features are missing
WhatsApp has been prepping support for multiple devices for months now — even longer if you consider its semi-functional existing web and desktop implementation as an intrinsic part of the process. The feature started to go live for some users a few days ago, and appears to be spreading widely now. Most beta app users should have it now, and it is making its way to non-beta users too. It's trivial to set up and, although most functionality is retained, it's still a little disappointing.
WhatsApp multi-device won’t support more than one phone
The first version will reportedly only work with web, desktop, and Portal
Compared to Telegram, Facebook-owned WhatsApp has been moving at a snail's pace in shipping new features. After years of waiting, users are finally getting multi-device support — but it's not looking nearly as comprehensive as we thought it would be.Support will be limited to WhatsApp Web, WhatsApp Desktop, and Facebook's smart display, Portal, at first, according to a report by WABetaInfo. If you were looking to use the same account on two Android phones or an Android and an iPhone, tough luck.
Google Duo's saga with multi-device support is nearing its end. Just as the US celebrates its independence, our beloved video chatting app is getting its own sovereignty from the shackles of single-device support and spreading its wings to land on as many phones and tablets as you want — with just as many caveats as you can imagine.