WhatsApp is introducing the ability to log into two accounts at the same time within the app on a single device.
As TechCrunch reports, Mark Zuckerberg confirmed the feature is coming soon on Facebook, followed by the WhatsApp blog stating it’s available today:
“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.”
In the past, operating two WhatsApp accounts meant using two devices or relying on a phone that supported cloning to enable more than one instance of WhatsApp to run on one device. Thankfully, neither of these options are required anymore, which will be music to the ears of anyone with multiple accounts.
Running two accounts still requires a second phone number and SIM card, or a phone that accepts multi-SIM or eSIM. In the WhatsApp settings you’ll see an “Add account” option next to your name, as well as the ability to control privacy and notification settings for both accounts.
WhatsApp introduced a range of other new features this year including the ability to hide private conversations, edit sent messages (if you’re fast enough), and passkey support on Android. And if WhatsApp isn’t living up to your expectations anymore, there’s a number of secure alternatives available.