WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that will allow users to have multiple accounts logged in at the same time, according to an announcement on Meta Thursday (Oct. 19).
This means that users can easily switch between accounts, such as work and personal, without having to log out each time or carry two phones. The announcement was made by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who stated that this feature will be available on Android in the coming weeks.
To set up a second account, users will need a second phone number and SIM card or a phone that accepts multi-SIM or eSIM. They can simply open their WhatsApp settings, click on the arrow next to their name, and click “Add account.” Privacy and notification settings can be controlled for each account.
This new feature will make it easier for users to manage their conversations across multiple accounts. For example, if someone has one WhatsApp account for work and another for personal use, they can now easily switch between the two. This eliminates the need to carry two phones or worry about messaging from the wrong account.
WhatsApp has been working on improving accessibility to accounts on different devices. It previously rolled out a multi-device feature in 2021, which allowed users to use their account across Android tablets, browsers or computers. This feature has now been expanded to include additional smartphones, allowing users to access their accounts on multiple phones.
The ability to log into two accounts simultaneously is a significant development for WhatsApp users. Previously, people had to carry two phones in order to use two WhatsApp accounts. However, with this new feature, users can now use just one phone for both accounts.
WhatsApp has been continuously improving its features and security measures. Earlier this week, they rolled out passkey support for the Android version, allowing users to log into the app without SMS-based two-factor authentication.
Just last month, the Meta-owned messaging platform said it is bringing in-chat payments to India, home to PayU and its largest customer base.