It's bringing that WhatsApp addiction to the next level.
For serious users, there are a few well-known quirks for the messaging service: It's possible to use the device even when you're far, far away from the phone or in a different region—provided its turned on. Recently, WhatsApp has released a new multi-device beta that changes all of that.
The new multi-device beta basically lets users use up to four linked companion devices and one phone at once without the need to keep the phone connected [read: on!].
Though it does require each device to be utilizing the latest version of WhatsApp (each device will also have to be relinked after opting into the feature), it's easy enough to enable.
Because it is a beta, there are some other limitations, like not being able to call or message on outdated versions of the app.
Here are the directions for joining the beta:
Android
- Open WhatsApp > tap More options.
- Tap Linked Devices.
- Tap Multi-device beta.
- Tap JOIN BETA.
iPhone
- Go to WhatsApp Settings.
- Tap Linked Devices.
- Tap Multi-Device Beta.
- Tap Join Beta.
For whatever reason, if you change your mind later, it's totally easy to revert back!