WhatsApp Web multi-device feature: How it will to work for users; beta rollout soon

WhatsApp Web multi-device feature: The rollout appears to be just around the corner. Here’s what users need to know about the feature coming to WhatsApp Web, WhatsApp Desktop and Facebook Portal devices.

WhatsApp Web multi-device feature: The new feature is expected to enhance user experience manifod. (Pixabay)

WhatsApp Web multi-device feature: This project has been in the works for a while now, and the company is looking to start testing the new capability with users who have signed up for the beta versions of the app. WhatsApp Web has already allowed users to connect with their contacts online, but until now it has required users to maintain a continuous internet connection with their smartphone, or the feature will not work. The Facebook-owned encrypted messenger service will soon begin testing the ability to use WhatsApp Desktop and WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp for Facebook Portal devices, independently of the smartphone's internet connectivity. In short, it will work even if the primary device is not connected to the internet.

Popular feature leaker website WABetaInfo was the first to spot the updated version of WhatsApp Web that shows the new multi-device feature in action on the devices. We have previously reported that the multi-device support will work on four devices at the same time, which is now confirmed by a screenshot shared by WABetaInfo that includes the message “Make calls and send messages without connecting your phone. Use WhatsApp on up to 4 devices at the same time."

When will users know about WhatsApp multi-device function?

Interestingly, it looks like users might not even notice what has changed when the feature rolls out to beta users and then to the stable channel. The report states that the login process is likely to remain unchanged. This means that some users may only realise they have received multi-device support after their WhatsApp Web app continues working after a phone disconnection. The additional devices are also expected to retain functionality even when your phone is completely powered off.

WhatsApp multi-device support not like Telegram, Facebook features

While this is a clear sign that multi-device support is coming to WhatsApp in the near future, it will not work in the same way as rivals Telegram Messenger, Facebook Messenger and others that allow users to sign in from multiple smartphones. We have also reported that the multi-device support will not work with more than one phone -- at least to begin with. Instead, users should be able to connect up to three more devices such as WhatsApp Desktop, WhatsApp Web and Facebook's Portal devices. However, as hints of a ‘Log out' button for mobile apps have previously been spotted, it might still be in the works, and could arrive at a later stage.