WhatsApp launches this function for all users who have the latest update 2.23.8.2 of the beta version for Android.
WhatsApp is implementing the ‘companion mode’, with which it is possible to link the same account on two devices at the same time, for all beta testers who have the latest update of the Android version.
This function was already introduced by the social network for instant messaging in November of the last year 2022. Since it was a beta test for this new mode, only a small number of beta testers had access to this option.
All users with the most recent 2.23.8.2 Android beta version will now be able to link an existing WhatsApp account to a second smartphone or tablet.
By doing this, more people will be able to make use of the companion mode’s benefits prior to its official release. This will provide access to chats, the ability to send and receive messages, as well as other WhatsApp features without requiring an active Internet connection on the primary smartphone after the account has been linked to the secondary device.
In addition, the chat history will be automatically synchronized between all devices where the app is installed and linked and messages and calls will continue to be protected with end-to-end encryption even if they are sent from the linked device instead of the main one.
Similar to how WhatsApp Web is used, pair two smartphones in companion mode. Installing the application on the secondary device requires making sure it has the most recent update. The next step is to select the “Connect a device” option from the choices menu that displays after entering your phone number on the registration screen.
Once this option has been selected, a QR code will appear on the screen that must be scanned using the primary mobile device in order to join the WhatsApp account. The account will be launched automatically on both phones, enabling cross-platform use of both devices.
WABetaInfo has learned that this update only applies to Android-powered devices, thus the second linked device—whether it’s a smartphone or a tablet—must also run the Android operating system. This feature is not yet accessible to WhatsApp users using iOS devices.
Similarly, it has come to light that even though the companion mode has been made available to all beta testers, some features might not be fully functional. For instance, using the attached device to post a status update or control broadcast lists.