WhatsApp has expanded its device linking feature, allowing users to connect their account to multiple phones simultaneously. This capability provides flexibility and convenience for individuals who utilize more than one smartphone or require access to their WhatsApp account from various devices. The process is straightforward and maintains the end-to-end encryption of personal messages across all linked devices.
## Linking a Secondary Device
To link a secondary phone to an existing WhatsApp account, follow these steps:
1. Install WhatsApp on the companion device and launch the application. Select the desired language and accept the terms of use.
(Image : Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry )
2. Instead of entering the phone number, choose the option to "Link this device to an existing account". On Android devices, access the menu by tapping the three dots (top right) and select "Link to existing account". A QR code will be displayed on the screen.
(Image : Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry )
3. On the primary smartphone, navigate to Settings (iPhone) or the three-dot menu and access "Linked Devices". Select "Link a Device".
(Image : Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry )
4. Utilize the camera on the primary device to scan the QR code presented on the secondary phone. The linking process will commence automatically, and the user's chat history will synchronize.
## Limitations and Considerations
Users can link up to four additional devices to their WhatsApp account, for a total of five devices including the primary phone.
The primary smartphone does not need to be online for the linked devices to function.
Messages will synchronize across all linked devices, regardless of the operating system (iOS or Android).
Personal messages remain end-to-end encrypted, ensuring privacy.
To maintain the connection between linked devices, users must log in to their primary phone at least every 14 days.
The expanded device linking feature in WhatsApp offers a convenient solution for users who require access to their account from multiple phones. The process is straightforward, secure, and maintains the end-to-end encryption of personal messages across all linked devices. By following the outlined steps and considering the limitations, users can effectively utilize their WhatsApp account on various smartphones simultaneously.