WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Meta, is rolling out a new feature that allows users to use two accounts on the same smartphone. This feature has been available to beta users for some time, but it is now rolling out to all Android users worldwide.
Previously, WhatsApp allowed users to use the same account on multiple devices, but with the new feature, users will be able to run two different WhatsApp accounts on a single Android device. This is a significant step forward, considering that such features have been available on competing messaging apps like Telegram for years.
To set up a second WhatsApp account, you’ll (obviously) need a second phone number and SIM card, or a phone with multi-SIM or eSIM support. However, if you have a second SIM card on a different device, you can still set up a second WhatsApp account as long as you can receive the security code for login.
Setting up the second account is straightforward. Navigate to your WhatsApp settings, click on your name, and select “Add account.”
This feature also offers the ability to customize your privacy and notification settings for each account independently.
Meta founder, Mark Zuckerberg, made the announcement. He said:
“Today, we’re introducing the ability to have two WhatsApp accounts logged in at the same time. Helpful for switching between accounts – such as your work and personal – now you no longer need to log out each time, carry two phones, or worry about messaging from the wrong place.”
This development is particularly useful to corporate users, especially as many businesses have adopted WhatsApp as tool for internal communications. The ability to seamlessly switch between personal and work conversations in one app will be a game-changer for these users.
Read also: WhatsApp Discontinues Updates for Smartphones Running on Android KitKat: All You Need to Know
The availability of this feature may vary depending on your location and device, as WhatsApp is releasing the new update in batches
WhatsApp also encourage users to only use the official WhatsApp application and avoid downloading imitations or fake versions, stating that messages are secure and private when using the official WhatsApp.